Marquette Plaza, a striking architectural marvel in the heart of Minneapolis, is more than just a building; it’s a testament to innovative design and urban rejuvenation. Located at 250 Marquette Avenue, this unique skyscraper stands as a symbol of both historical significance and modern sustainability.
Designed by the renowned architect Gunnar Birkerts, Marquette Plaza is a masterpiece of engineering ingenuity. Its design emulates a suspension bridge, with floors supported by two sets of catenary cables. This innovative approach not only gives the building its distinctive appearance but also showcases a bold departure from conventional architectural norms. Originally serving as the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis from 1973 to 1997, the building is often affectionately referred to as the old Federal Reserve building.
The building's original design included an external elevator prism on its east face, connecting the ground-floor lobby to the rest of the structure. This design choice emphasized the building's unique construction method, creating an open space between the lobby and the main structure above ground.
While Marquette Plaza's design was celebrated as an engineering triumph, it was not without its challenges. Early on, the building faced issues such as leaking windows and the presence of asbestos. These problems, coupled with the high costs of renovation, led the Federal Reserve to relocate to a new complex nearby, leaving Marquette Plaza to transition into private hands.
In 2002, a significant renovation transformed the building, costing approximately $65 million. This makeover included adding office space on the east side and converting the adjacent concrete-paved plaza into a lush green park. The renovation not only addressed the building's structural issues but also enhanced its aesthetic appeal, making it a desirable location for businesses and organizations.
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Today, Marquette Plaza is home to a diverse range of tenants, including telecommunications companies that utilize the former vault space. The building also temporarily housed the Minneapolis Public Library's central branch while awaiting the completion of a new facility nearby. This adaptability and versatility have made Marquette Plaza a vital part of Minneapolis's commercial landscape.
Marquette Plaza made history in 2011 by becoming the first building in downtown Minneapolis to achieve LEED Platinum certification. This prestigious recognition from the US Green Building Council highlights the building's leadership in urban sustainability. As the first major multi-tenant building in Minnesota to receive this certification, Marquette Plaza set a benchmark for eco-friendly practices in the region.
The certification was a collaborative effort, involving property manager Base Management and 23 building tenants, including The Scoular Company, federal agencies, Foley & Mansfield, Meet Minneapolis, and CenturyLink. Achieving LEED Platinum status in a multi-tenant building is particularly challenging, underscoring the commitment of all parties involved to sustainability.
Marquette Plaza's influence extends beyond Minneapolis. Its innovative design is credited with inspiring the addition of a catenary arch observation bridge over the Kingdom Centre's spectacular opening in Saudi Arabia. This global impact underscores the building's significance as a beacon of architectural creativity.
In conclusion, Marquette Plaza is not just a building; it’s a dynamic part of Minneapolis's skyline and history. Its journey from a groundbreaking design to a sustainable, multi-purpose hub reflects the city's spirit of innovation and resilience. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a sustainability advocate, or a curious traveler, Marquette Plaza offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of past and future in one of America's vibrant urban centers.
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