Project: Mississippi Loft
Architecture: PKA Architecture
Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
Year: 2022
Photo Credits: PKA Architecture
When the clients returned to Minneapolis after living overseas, they purchased two raw shells in a historic building overlooking the Mississippi River. Originally built in 1879, the seven-story brick structure had a rich past, having served as both a flour mill and a luxury hotel before its conversion into a condominium. Despite its prime location, these spaces had long been considered difficult to build due to the presence of structural columns, mechanical stacks, and remnants of the building’s industrial history. The project also had to navigate code regulations and weight restrictions associated with the historic structure.
Balancing History with Modern Design
The clients wanted to create a home that reflected the building’s industrial character while providing spaces for living, working, and displaying art. Their vision included a balance between public and private areas, an integrated garden, and a dedicated art gallery and studio. To achieve this, the design team drew inspiration from the building’s original materials, including brick, timber, iron, and glass, and worked closely with the clients to transform the space into a modern yet historically sensitive home.
The renovation centered around the double-height, exposed brick walls, which set the foundation for the layout. A bold steel mezzanine was introduced to divide the expansive space, serving as both an art gallery and a studio while creating a more intimate environment below. This architectural element not only adds visual interest but also maximizes functionality within the loft.
A Glass Solarium with a Victorian Influence
One of the most striking additions to the Mississippi Loft is the glass solarium, inspired by the clients’ appreciation for European Victorian architecture. Drawing from the design of London’s 1851 Crystal Palace, the solarium is crafted from steel and features hand-blown glass rondels. Positioned between the owner’s suite and the kitchen, this transparent structure allows natural light to filter through while creating a lush, indoor garden-like retreat. The solarium serves as both a functional transition space and a dramatic design feature that enhances the loft’s character.
Overcoming Structural and Regulatory Challenges
Given the building’s historic status, the design required close collaboration with structural engineers and the condominium review board. The team worked to integrate the mezzanine and solarium without compromising the building’s integrity while ensuring compliance with preservation guidelines. These additions were carefully planned to maintain required structural elements while enhancing the livability of the space.
A Thoughtfully Curated Interior
The loft’s interior combines custom millwork, luxurious furnishings, and original artwork to create a home that is both contemporary and deeply rooted in history. Every detail was considered to honor the building’s industrial past while elevating it with refined modern elements. The result is a residence that seamlessly merges old and new, bringing fresh energy to a once-overlooked space.
The transformation of the Mississippi Loft not only provides its owners with a uniquely personal living space but also adds value to the historic building. By blending industrial heritage with innovative design, the project contributes to the ongoing revitalization of the Minneapolis riverfront, ensuring that the city’s architectural history continues to evolve while being preserved for future generations.
