
Inspired by numerous historical and industrial spaces, including the nearby General Mills elevators, Johnson explains that the Cuningham team created a simple, honest material palette to blend into the area’s unmistakable historical context and fit comfortably, even at its large scale.

Rather than developing an oasis that would differentiate the property from the more raw and artistic aspects of the neighborhood, Mortenson and the entire design team recognized an opportunity to craft Rafter as a place that echoes the existing Northeast Minneapolis community.” Jeremiah Johnson, AIA, NCARB, Cuningham’s Lead Designer on the project, adds: “The Mortenson Development team was visionary in its approach to this project. Every choice, from each element of the façade design, to the interiors, to the property name – everything reflects the eclectic and unique attributes of this neighborhood.”Īccording to Schoeneck, Cuningham’s concept centered on delivering a true ‘love letter’ to Northeast Minneapolis – a fresh, modern design that emulates and seamlessly integrates into the surrounding community, preserving significant elements of its industrial, working-class history. “Those who live in and frequent the area know its historic buildings, exceptional dining, and flourishing art scene – as well as the ‘rafters’ of wild turkeys that call it home. “The strategy behind this design was to deliver an aesthetic and amenities that today’s luxury apartment residents crave, while creating a feel and lifestyle that is distinctly Northeast Minneapolis,” says Cuningham Group Live Studio Leader Jeff Schoeneck, AIA, NCARB, LEED® AP. Cuningham Group, a global architectural design firm, has announced the completion of Rafter, a 283-unit luxury apartment community in the Northeast submarket of Minneapolis, Minnesota.Ĭuningham – which is headquartered in Minneapolis and has deep roots in the city – was retained by Mortenson Development in cooperation with US Bank to undertake the architecture, concept design, and interior design of the 26-story, 407,530 square-foot project, which also includes 6,000 square feet of retail space.
