The Waters Center, located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a historic building that has evolved through multiple roles since its construction in 1899. Originally known as The Waters Building, it was conceived by entrepreneur Phillip Klingman as a hub for showcasing furniture from more than fifty manufacturers, marking an essential chapter in the city’s identity as 'Furniture City.' This six-story edifice was designed to meet the burgeoning needs of the furniture industry, allowing manufacturers to display a wide array of residential furnishings in one central location. Its immediate success led to the addition of a sixth floor just a year after its initial completion.
As the years passed, the residential furniture trade shifted south in the late 1950s, prompting the transition of the Waters Building into office spaces. This redefined its role within the community, providing work environments for numerous small businesses that thrived in the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit of Grand Rapids. For nearly a century, the Waters family maintained ownership, ensuring the building's connection to the city's commercial legacy.
In 2006, Edmark Development Company and Visser Brothers Construction acquired the property, initiating its transformation into the Waters Center. Following extensive renovations, the building now hosts stylish apartments, modern office suites, and retail spaces, alongside the elegant Homewood Suites by Hilton hotel, blending contemporary functionality with historical charm.
Today, the Waters Center stands as an iconic piece of Grand Rapids history, proudly displaying elements of its rich past, including original storefronts and architectural features. Its latest iteration not only honors the building’s storied heritage but also promises to enhance the economic landscape of the region, continuing the grand tradition of successful commerce.
