The project replaced a functionally obsolete building with a 25,000-square-foot, environmentally conscious building and surrounding gardens offering an enhanced experience for the thousands of people that Lakewood welcomes and serves each year. In addition to accommodating staff and welcoming visitors, the building serves as a community gathering space for several events throughout the year.
Creating new space that honored a 150-year-old institution’s history while anticipating changing needs for the future was complex. Leadership had also made a commitment to sustainability by challenging the project team to deliver a sustainable and resilient project. In addition, Lakewood is an active site with thousands of annual visitors and activity year-round; construction activity needed to be managed in such a way as to have minimal impact on operations.
By careful study of the existing site context and evolving operations, the team delivered a space that can accommodate current needs and have the flexibility to evolve with changing needs. A roof top PV solar and a geothermal well system are designed to produce as much energy as the building uses annually. Close coordination between operations and the project team ensured visitors and interment services were uninterrupted by construction operations.
The project, delivered ahead of schedule and under budget, has been very well received by staff and visitors alike.
25,000 sf, Budget
ASLA Minnesota Merit Award
AIA Minnesota Honor Award
SEAol Excellence in Structural Engineering Award
American Architecture Award Honorable Mention
Finance and Commerce Top Project
Net Zero Building incorporating rooftop solar and geothermal wells
I have a deep respect for people who lead with partnership over transaction — and that’s exactly what NTH, Inc. delivered.
Angie Whitcomb
President & CEO
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