On a Minneapolis North Loop walk, gave this apartment/retail building a second look. Recently learned 100 years ago this was an instant coffee factory that was claimed to be the largest in the world.
Category: Adaptive Reuse
New Use for a Bank
Included some of my favorite indoor spaces on my Downtown walk. This was originally the banking hall for the Farmers and Mechanics Bank, my first bank when I arrived in Minneapolis. The original space is quite recognizable, although it’s now the lobby of a Westin.
The Shed
Pushed my bicycle through “The Shed” in Nordeast Minneapolis. Over 300 people work 21st century jobs in the surrounding former industrial spaces. The gantry crane nods to the past.
Former Fire Stations
Cycled with a friend looking for former fire stations. This unusual beauty was built in 1923 in the American Craftsman bungalow style. Former Fire Station Number 13 is now an architects’ office. One of the partners gave us a tour of the sensitively repurposed building.
Redeeming a Crumbling Edifice
Walked my bicycle down a dirt road behind the derelict Harris Machinery Company building at the edge of the University of Minnesota’s East Bank campus. I love this crumbling edifice, but until today thought it was beyond redemption.
Rail Shed
Wandered through open doors at the Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel. The hotel has recently opened this lovely event space in the former rail shed of the Milwaukee Road Depot. The chimneys vented smoke from steam locomotives.
Former Cream of Wheat Headquarters
Walked to a Home Depot to choose picture hangers and drywall anchors. On the way, stopped to enjoy the 1928 Art Moderne former Cream of Wheat headquarters and factory, now condos.
Awaiting Rebirth
Walked past the dilapidated 1884 Commutator Brass Foundry Co. Building in the Minneapolis Warehouse District. Delighted to learn it will be preserved and incorporated into new construction.
Downtown Post Office
Cycled past the Downtown post office. The building is begging for a new use.
Minneapolis Westin
Wandered through the former downtown Farmers and Mechanics Savings Bank building where I once banked. Today it’s a Westin.