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.