urbanMSP

So, presumably the three bedroom units are the high-buck ones. Curious that they located them on the east corner, since the south corner is presumably the one with the best skyline/river views. Maybe defensive location in case the rest of the block gets developed?

I'm not in love with the new US bank, but I'm happy that they are putting it on the corner, it still has an urban context. It's good for being a bank, and a total net gain for this half block. If someday the bank goes, it can be redeveloped easily.

So between this, Nye's, Superior Plating and the funeral home, what can we reasonably expect to see build? Two of four?

I don't understand. This building looks fucking terrible.

It's not that bad. Especially the rendering of the street level podium. It reminds me more of what's going on in Europe.

Here is another article about this including some street view renderings. It goes to the Minneapolis planning commission meeting next Thursday:

http://www.journalmpls.com/news-feed/mo ... -northeast

Could be worse

Part of the issues I think is that they have enhanced the reflective nature of the glass bands beyond what they will mostly be in the real world. These are not the best diagrams for getting a good reading of what it will look like. A bit too over the top to me. The enhancement with the reflections, not the design.

Have to agree Grant, the one above would be awful!!

It reminds me of an annoying kid having too much fun. Someone needs to tell the building to grow up and become something.

That being said, I don't hate it. I like the color schematic. I like that they have some bold design elements... but they need to pick one and focus on that... and make every other element compliment that main element.

The "scattered windows" feel completely disconnected from the "cutout" windows.

I actually think I prefer the building Grant pictured than the actual proposal.

I actually think I prefer the building Grant pictured than the actual proposal.

Yeah, I'm kind of in love with it. Like a retro version of the torre agbar.

http://www.startribune.com/iconic-tower ... 322117521/

Nothing new, but wanted to post the link.

What this thread (and forum in general) tells me is that no one likes the same things in architecture. Anytime anyone builds a tower, at least 25% will love it and 25% will hate it. Some people complain that developers here don't get enough big name architects, and then when we do, people hate the buildings. Some people want height, some people want a nice view from afar, some people want active streetscape. And no one is happy unless the building is the IDS.

Which is fun for conversation sake, but also makes me glad I'm not an architect.

One of the problems with the current diagram is the reflective nature of the glassed sections. If almost looks like the building is missing part of itself due to the unrealistic reflections. I'm sure if someone were to tone down those reflective sections that might make the building a bit more palatable. Like I said in an earlier post. This diagram is just too over the top and unrealistic. Some more subdued glass and I think it will come off my better. IMO

If someone has the ability to do that, I'd like to see what it would look like.

QFT:

Which is fun for conversation sake, but also makes me glad I'm not an architect.

I like those block shiny areas. From the ground it will look like there are chunks of the building missing. Dare I say iconic?

Too late, Star Tribune already dared.

(see link above)

I like those block shiny areas. From the ground it will look like there are chunks of the building missing. Dare I say iconic?

I'd have to agree. That's one of my favorite aspects of the design. Certainly has more of an "iconic" feel than United's Nicollet Hotel Block proposal.

3rd meeting on this tonight with the NIEBNA. Going to try to persuade the developers to add a little bit more height and push the setbacks back a few more feet to make it appear skinnier.

333 Hennepin Google Earth Model

Thanks mbp, your work rocks us all!! I love seeing the perspectives that you give us.