Explored the University of Minnesota’s East and West Bank (of the Mississippi) campuses with a friend. Walked into buildings that promised to be interesting. In the School of Architecture earnest students were having their work reviewed by their peers.
Category: Design
Ralph Rapson in the Twin Cities
Plotted a map showing local buildings designed by architect Ralph Rapson. I’ll use this to spice up some walks this winter.
Crystal Court
Walked through the downtown Minneapolis IDS Center’s gorgeous Crystal Court. Opened in 1972, Philip Johnson’s masterpiece still feels fresh.
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.
Architectural Antiques
Sought inspiration at Architectural Antiques.
Tangletowns
Explored Tangletowns in both Minneapolis and St. Paul, where the streets wind and ignore the grid. Found this 1887 Cass Gilbert home in St. Paul’s Tangletown. Later, Gilbert was the architect for the MInnesota Capitol, the Woolworth Building in New York, and the US Supreme Court.
Louis Sullivan Ironwork
Paused at this ironwork above the entrance to a Target store in Chicago’s loop. Legendary architect, Louis Sullivan, created this for the Carson Pirie Scott department store which originally occupied this building.
Downtown Post Office
Cycled past the Downtown post office. The building is begging for a new use.
Art Deco Stairwell
Wandered around Downtown with a friend. Peered into buildings, including the Art Deco Rand Tower built in 1929.
St. Paul Art Deco
Explored St. Paul’s City Hall and County Courthouse Art Deco building. The lobby is a war memorial. At the base of the huge statue, Vision of Peace, five Native Americans are depicted smoking a peace pipe.