United States Postal Service
Minneapolis, MinnesotaWhen it came time to expand its Minneapolis operations, the United States Postal Service confronted some difficult issues. The existing facility was a significant landmark located along the newly developed Mississippi River Parkway. Space on the site was limited and further complicated by the need for enclosed truck dockage and maneuvering, mail processing and employee parking. Marrying the various functions into a cohesive building structure presented major architectural and engineering challenges. HGA's design solution respects the original structure by making the building whole, rather than simply making an addition to an old building. The materials and new construction techniques render the addition inconspicuous; carved stone and metal echo the landmarkís art deco original. The expansion included a large enclosed dock that required the maneuvering of large vehicles. Two full levels of below-grade parking were provided below the dock level for employee parking.