Turf Club Renovation Complete

Client: Turf Club - 701 Ventures Location: Saint Paul, MN

Completion: Summer 2014

HCM Architects partnered with several other consultants under the direction of 701 Ventures for the remodel of the Turf Club, a live music venue and bar on University Avenue in Saint Paul.  The Turf Club began as a dance hall in the 1940s and became well-known in the 1990s as one of the few sites in Saint Paul where local bands performed.   The renovation included basic upgrading of the roof, plumbing and electrical.  The existing ceiling on the main floor was removed and now remains open to the wood structure above.  The restrooms on both floors were fully remodeled and expanded and a kitchen was added on the main floor in order to offer a wider menu to customers. The general overall aesthetic of the locale was retained in the finishes and décor which appeals to old and new patrons alike.

See the Minnesota Public Radio article about the renovation here.

See the St. Paul Pioneer Press article about the reopening here.

Roseville Parks Renewal Program- Community Buildings

Client: Parks and Recreation Dept., City of Roseville Location: Roseville, MN

Status: In Progress

Construction is currently underway on six Community Buildings for the City of Roseville.  The buildings are located throughout the City in the following parks; Lexington Park, Autumn Grove Park, Rosebrook Park, Villa Park, Oasis Park and Sandcastle Park.  These buildings are part of a larger Parks Renewal Program that is making improvements to all the City's park facilities.

The Community Buildings will be year-round facilities that will support the activities of the parks, the neighborhoods and the larger community.  The buildings are of different sizes and design but maintain a common image and vocabulary that support the common mission of the Parks and Recreation Department.

The project team and site design is led by LHB Corporation with project partners including; HCM Architects, SRF Consulting civil engineering, Mattson Macdonald Young structural engineering, Emanuelson-Podas mechanical/electrical engineering, and Knutson Construction.

The Community Buildings are anticipated to be complete in the spring of 2015.

Lac Lavon Park- New Park Building in Progress

Client: Parks and Recreation Dept., City of Burnsville Location: Burnsville, MN

Status: In Progress

HCM Architects have partnered with Kimley Horn and Associates civil engineering firm to renovate the recreation fields and their facilities of Lac Lavon Park for the City of Burnsville Parks and Recreation Department.  The existing six field complex at Lac Lavon Park is one of the top complexes in the state.  It frequently hosts regional, state, and national tournaments.  HCM Architects designed a new ~1,300SF concessions and restrooms building for the site that will become the centerpoint from which four ballfields radiate.  The style of the building is simple yet strong, with steeply pitched rooflines that extend well beyond the exterior façade.  Horizontal, linear siding wraps the building and sits atop a brick base, coordinating with the surrounding residential context.

HCM thanks Kimley Horn and Associates, Mattson Macdonald Young Structural Engineers and Emanuelson-Podas Consulting Engineers for their collaboration with this project.

Bad Weather Brewing Company- Brewery in Progress

Client: Bad Weather Brewing Company Location: Saint Paul, MN

Status: In Progress

Bad Weather Brewing Company owners Zac Carpenter and Joe Giambruno have commissioned HCM Architects to design their first brewery and taproom on West 7th Street in Saint Paul.  Creating a brew to table beer experience is the main idea guiding the design for the brewery.  Visual sightlines of the brew tanks provide beer lovers a direct connection with the beer they'll be tasting.  The storefront of the brewery will have retractable garage doors that open and bridge the indoor taproom and event areas with the patio along West 7th Street.  More to come as construction begins!

Harmon Park- Buildings & Site Improvements Underway

Client: Parks and Recreation Dept., City of West Saint PaulLocation: West Saint Paul, MN Status: In Progress

Located in the northern part of West Saint Paul, Harmon Park is one of the city's oldest residential parks dating from the 1920s and largest with almost 11 acres of space.  HCM Architects and SRF Consulting were commissioned by the City of West Saint Paul to renovate Harmon Park which had not been updated since 1987.  The city plans to redevelop the four existing ball fields on site in a new pinwheel configuration that will allow for simultaneous full usage for youth teams.  The fields will also have perimeter fencing, dugouts, bleacher seating and irrigation.

The renovation will also include a new concessions building located at the ball fields, a new warming shelter building for winter sports and a new community building with public meeting and office space.  All three facilities will have public restrooms located within.  The design of the buildings lends to a traditional style that mimics the surrounding residential context but also has simple modern elements such as angled bay windows, extended roof lines and exterior arbor structures.  The facade pallet is consistent among all three buildings and also remains traditionally classic with burnished stone base at the walls, linear wood panel siding and trim that uniquely wraps the buildings.

HCM Architects looks forward to the final completion of the Harmon Park renovation!  We would like to recognize the efforts of our additional project partners also; Emanuelson-Podas Consulting Engineers and Mattson Macdonald Young Structural Engineers.

Upsher-Smith Laboratories PPC Facility Renovation Complete

Client: Upsher-Smith Laboratories Location: Plymouth, MN

Completion: Winter 2014

Upsher-Smith Laboratories (USL) is a pharmaceutical company that manufactures generic and branded generic medications.  HCM Architects was commissioned to renovate an existing facility in Plymouth, MN for USL's Plymouth Packaging Center (PPC), located southeast of the current USL manufacturing facility. The scope of the project was to demolish the interior of the facility and build-out new packaging, office and auxiliary spaces with new mechanical and electrical services within the existing ~30,000GSF building for 150 employees.

The renovation was successfully completed in Winter 2014 with the following partners; Schreiber Mullaney Construction, Paulson & Clark Engineering, Yale Mechanical and Collins Electrical Construction.

Valspar Applied Science and Technology Center - Phase 1

Client: Valspar Corporation Location: Minneapolis, MN

Completion: January 2014

Valspar Corporation is a Minneapolis-headquartered international manufacturer of paint and coatings.  They are currently consolidating their North American Research and Test Lab capabilities into one campus named Valspar Applied Science and Technology (VAST) Center.  This campus is comprised of four (4) buildings centered at the intersection of 11th Avenue South and 3rd Street South in Minneapolis.  This specific project for Valspar involves the restoration and reuse of Building #4.  Building #4 is two adjoining buildings, the 5-story portion was constructed in 1903 using heavy timber framing, wood decking and load bearing masonry exterior.  During its 110-year history, the building has been home to Minnesota Linseed Oil Paint Company and Minnesota Paint Company before becoming Valspar Corporation.  The adjacent 3-story building was constructed in 1912 as a concrete structure and has served as a Valspar warehouse previous to this renovation.

In this project, Valspar proposed to reuse the building by renovating the 3-story portion as research and test laboratories and the 5-story portion as office and storage space.  Demolition and refurbishing of Building #4 launched in December 2012 and was complete and ready for occupancy in January 2014.  The restoration process was completed following the Minnesota Historical Society structure rehabilitation requirements to preserve the historic integrity of the building.

VAST Center has received OSHA Star Status, an important designation of an exemplary worksite safety and health management system which only 29 other companies in Minnesota carry.  VAST Center is also recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.

HCM Architects are proud to have worked on this project and credit it's success to collaborative partnerships with; Loucks Associates, Harris Companies, Parameters, Kraus Anderson Construction, Michaud Cooley Erickson, and BKBM Engineers.

Following photo credits to Paul Crosby.

R&D Systems Executive Area Remodel

Client: R&D Systems Location: Minneapolis, MN

Completion: Spring 2014

During the design of R&D Systems CCD Building, prototypical interior finish standards were created for the R&D Campus.  With the expertise of interior designer Jill Johnson of Isola Design, R&D Systems now has an elegant pallet of finishes to use in their future renovations.  The Executive area of Building 2201 was recent remodel project that was able to utilize these new finish standards.  The work for this space included removal of the old wall coverings, fresh paint/color, a modern carpet layout and more.  These small changes have completely transformed the space and have been very well received!

Boston Scientific WL3 Lobby Renovation Complete

Client: Boston Scientific Corporation Location: Maple Grove, MN

Completion: December 2013

The Boston Scientific corporate team commissioned HCM Architects to bring new design energy to the existing Weaver Lake 3 Lobby. In 2005 HCM Architects designed the Weaver Lake 3 Building, though company branding had not been solidified at that time to incorporate into the project.  Today, Boston Scientific was looking to use interactive technology displays to brand their message within their main lobby.  HCM saw this as a perfect opportunity to partner with Star, a Minneapolis-based exhibit design company, to collaboratively design and build the client's branding pieces. The final design included a new backdrop with monitor to the front desk, a touch screen area with fabric panel backdrops consisting of inspirational words used by the company, a light box column with another branding word used today, a large video screen wall consisting of 9 monitors that displays videos of company product, and finally re-working the BSC logo on the brick wall to be more visible in the space.

With a very short amount of time to execute the design, Star was able to build the pieces quickly and the BSC team was very happy with the end result! Since this project was such a success, we have now been asked to create this same energy in the WL2 Lobby. This design with be presented to the owner in the near future.

Following photo credits to Paul Crosby.

Bio-Techne/R&D Systems CCD Building Renovation Project Complete

Client: Bio-Techne / R&D Systems Location: Minneapolis, MN

Completion: September 2013

R&D Systems owns a building on their Minneapolis campus that was being rented out as tenant space. The building was in poor condition and the company was having difficulty keeping the spaces full. R&D Systems is a fast growing company and found they needed more space to accommodate that growth. Instead of using the building as tenant space, they felt it would be a great additional to their campus.

However, in order to make the building fit into the campus look, a lot of work needed to be done. This renovation project included new labs, offices, lobby, breakroom, and warehouse space for the Hematology Department. The project was constructed in two phases, the first phase was called the Core and Shell package; including all work to the exterior shell of the building along with the addition of new mechanical systems and stairs on the roof and interior of the building.

The second phase was the interior build-out of the lab and office spaces mentioned above.  This project was very challenging because of the height restrictions of the Lower Level and the type of mechanical systems that needed to be installed to accommodate those laboratories.  This project was also a huge success utilizing the BIM tool Revit to create the Interior Build-Out package. R&D Systems is very unique and uses the Revit model for their facilities management. It was a learning process to understand the level of detail in which this building should be modeled, but in the end we created a very useful tool for their company and learned a lot more about the program to help us with future design projects.  This project was a great achievement for R&D Systems and HCM Architects and project partners; Sunde Engineering, Mattson Macdonald Young, Aid Electric Corporation, Egan Company, and RJM Construction.  We had a great time working with the R&D team and look forward to future projects on their campus!

Following photo credits to Paul Crosby.

Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Commission Award received for 'New Addition to an Historic Building' for Roosevelt Library

Client: Hennepin County, Roosevelt Public Library Location: Standish Neighborhood, South Minneapolis

Completion: Summer 2013

Roosevelt Library of Minneapolis recently won a Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Commission Award for ‘New Addition to an Historic Building’. The Minneapolis Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, and Preserve Minneapolis honor exemplary projects, individuals, and community organizations that celebrate and enhance the heritage and historic character of Minneapolis. These awards highlight the year’s best achievements for transforming a historic property, building, or landscape and reinventing it to incorporate both new and old elements in a way that that is respectful to the past. Projects are judged on attention to the quality of design, architecture, workmanship, and materials as well as the positive impact on the surrounding neighborhood and community.

The addition design was to maintain the “integrity” of the original building but to “set it apart” from the original design through differentiation in proportions and detailing. The new addition is approximately 20' x 30' and is located off the southwest corner of the existing building. This location was chosen so it does not interrupt the original strong symmetrical front facade. The new roof level is lower than the existing roof level to remain subordinate to the main building. The window sills and headers of the new addition were simplified and set apart by using poured concrete similar to the existing sills. The design intent was to keep the expansions and its details subtle but respectful to the existing historic building.   The following are exterior photos of the completed renovation.

HCM 16th Anniversary Party

Friends of HCM Architects,  

We are looking forward to our annual open house this year as it gives us the opportunity to acknowledge how fortunate we have been the last sixteen years of business. We are truly thankful for all our clients, colleagues and consultants with whom we have teamed up with on our projects. Most of all, we appreciate our families, friends and industry partners who have supported us along the way.

We would like to invite you to celebrate our 16th anniversary!

Join us at our office, 4201 Cedar Avenue South, Minneapolis

Friday, February 7th, 2014  4-9pm

F+G Office Build-out

HCM is excited to be assisting Faithful+Gould on the design of their new office space at the Plaza VII office tower in Minneapolis.  The space is designed to have a contemporary, open feel without being cold or sterile.  The shell of the space is nearly ready and in the next several weeks custom millwork, booths, soft seating work areas and frosted glass walls will be installed.

New Partners Announced

We are extremely pleased to announce that Matt Lysne and Dan Lind have been named Partners and accepted Ownership roles at HCM Architects.  Matt and Dan are outstanding architects that provide our clients services at the highest levels with thoughtfulness and dedication. They exhibit the best qualities of our profession. We are truly lucky to have them become our Partners. Please congratulate them on this next step in their careers.

Town Hall Lanes Complete!

Client:  Pete Rifakes, Town Hall Lanes owner Location: Keewaydin Neighborhood, South Minneapolis, MN

Completion: July 2013

HCM Architects, Patrick Dorn Construction, Thatcher Structural Engineers and Premier restaurant equipment company were happy to celebrate the completion of construction of Town Hall Lanes with owner Pete Rifakes at the grand opening on July 19, 2013.

The existing building was transformed dramatically into a rustic yet refined brew pub and bowling alley.  A major key in the building's renovation was the removal of the second floor which allowed for a nice two story space at the main bar room with natural lighting to showcase an antique wood bar and a grand chandelier hung from the existing exposed structure.  The bowling lanes were renovated and decorated with cool retro graphics. Town Hall Lanes is the third restaurant for Pete Rifakes, who also owns the Town Hall Brewery and Town Hall Tap both in Minneapolis. Cheers!

The newly renovated Tudor Revival style Hennepin County Library - Roosevelt opened its revitalized doors on June 2nd!

Background:

The old brick and wood building is a gem that continues to be a significant community and cultural resource to the city. This landmark was constructed in 1927 and its original footprint was 4,320 SF. Roosevelt was one of 13 libraries developed under the leadership of Gratia Countryman, who served as head librarian for the Minneapolis Public Library system from 1904 to 1936. Countryman’s goal was to create an institution that addressed citizen’s social needs; an environment that actively and integrally participates in the social life of their communities. Roosevelt’s strengths today are the same design movements of the original MPL System. The main level is comprised of one large intimate reading room that contains no major dividers or partition walls. The main floor is open and naturally lit by large numerous window. One goal of the project was to preserve and strengthen these successful attributes while revitalizing the overall experience. Another goal was to capture the needs and desires of the community, neighbors participated in the design process and helped refine the project strategy.

Initiative:

The project balanced between retaining the historic nature of the building and creating a structure that incorporates modern amenities. Maintenance and improvements were critical to keep this library as a community anchor and resource. With an old aging building in the twenty first century; Roosevelt’s key upgrades included full code compliance, accessibility routes and restrooms, new energy efficient mechanical and electrical systems, exterior restorations and collection updates. The sustainable approach at Roosevelt is the long-term preservation of the building itself, and rehabilitating the building to fit its future needs. Roosevelt’s original masonry construction was designed to last; the rehabilitation treatments will help the building continue to fulfill its original purpose as well as adapt to new opportunities.

Exterior Scope:

One of the initial goals of the Minneapolis Libraries was aimed at breaking down barriers between books and people. Physical accessibility to the books was a critical issue when opening all the early community branches. The newly ‘refreshed’ Roosevelt site design incorporates needed accessible upgrades and social outreach amenities. The civic strength between the library institution and the Roosevelt High school was maintained while providing welcoming and accessible environments that the community desired. Roosevelt’s site includes the introduction of intimate exterior reading alcoves. These spaces are located under the existing old trees containing garden walls and fixed benches. The main entrance and sequence of approach from both 28th Avenue and the rear parking lot was brought up to code for accessibility along with well lit path lighting. The new exterior book drop was located adjacent to the main entrance and deposit directly into the library for safety and convenience, creating a cleaner and more efficient process but keeping a historic character. The new bike rack/parking area is now located off 28th Avenue, adjacent to the main entry and will help support the highly used alternative means of transportation to Roosevelt. The new site design invigorates the site experience, provides accessibility while keeping the strong site symmetry and historic charm.

Interior Scope:

Although the interior was completed gutted out the interior design was aimed to keep the historic character of a property; introducing distinctive materials and features, spaces, and spatial relationships that characterize this small and intimate tutor library. Amenities included more public computers, wireless access, a teen area, more books, DVDs and CDs, and flexible, appealing spaces with more seating. In addition; a new addition with lots of natural light was designed to house an open meeting space requested by the community. The addition design responses to the original building but is differentiated from the old with subtle features, scale and proportions but keeping with integrity of the property and its environment.

This little library is truly a gem worth reading at!

Vast demolition continues!

Temp Window Enclosures have been installed and window restoration started. The loading Dock Removal is wrapping up. Abatement Continues and slab removal in Lower Level continues. Level one compete demolition is nearly finished. The design team continues to work through the historic process with Window mock-ups and brick matching. As the demolition continues the sea of columns are being exposed; the new stair wells and shafts are being cut in. What a transformation as we get down to the old infrastructure.

Finishing touches!

Roosevelt is wrapping up quick; finishes and millwork are being install and are looking great. It’s amazing what some color and wood can do to a space. The ceiling and lighting are complete and cap the space to enhance the cozy ambiance of this small library. Rumor has it there is a lot of excitment for the grand opening this spring! We know we are!

HCM Anniversary Party!

HCM turns 15 on February 2nd and will celebrate with an Anniversary Party on Friday, February 8th! Thank you to all of our families, friends, clients and consultants for a wonderful string of years, hopefully with many more to come!