The inception of the Washburn-Crosby Milling Company predates the establishment of General Mills, situated on the bustling Mississippi riverfront in downtown Minneapolis. In 1914, the construction of a utility building was initiated to accommodate the flourishing mill's packaging operations. Crafted by the talented Edwin Hewitt, a native of Red Wing, Minnesota, who honed his skills while working in Cass Gilbert's office in Boston, the building exuded architectural brilliance. Three intricately hand-carved terra-cotta figures, symbolizing the innovative millers of 1914, embellish the southern facade of the building.
After General Mills ceased milling operations in 1965, the building stood vacant until a devastating fire destroyed many other mill buildings in 1991. In 1983, the utility building was acquired by the Minnesota Historical Society. By 2002, the historic Washburn-Crosby utility building underwent a remarkable transformation into luxurious condominiums, known today as the prestigious Washburn Lofts.
Branson Builders and Contractors, in collaboration with All Seasons Fireplace, transformed the penthouse condominium. A standout feature of the design by MSR architecture was the installation of a stunning Filiofocus suspended fireplace at the heart of the space. The wood burning fireplace was successfully installed in the penthouse condo due to its unique location, allowing for direct venting out of the building's rooftop. Jim Bradrick elaborated on how the Historical Society mandated the chimney's design to remain concealed from street view, ensuring a seamless integration with the historical charm of the Washburn-Crosby utility building.
Branson Builders excels in transforming condominium spaces, proud of the strong relationships they have forged with a handpicked team of subcontractors who collaborate seamlessly to cater to their discerning clientele. The bespoke Filiofocus fireplace was intricately crafted to seamlessly blend into the granite floor. Precision measurements were taken on-site for the suspension pipe, which was then expertly cut off-site and seamlessly connected on the day of installation, ensuring a flawless finish to the penthouse design.
The expansive open floor plan of the penthouse condominium not only promotes easy movement for homeowners and guests during entertaining but also creates a sense of spaciousness and fluidity within the space. With windows on three sides, natural light floods the interior, highlighting the stunning views of the majestic Mississippi River that can be enjoyed from every angle of the room. This strategic layout not only enhances the overall ambiance of the penthouse but also invites a seamless connection between the indoor living space and the picturesque outdoor landscape, creating a truly immersive and captivating experience for residents and visitors alike.
The previous owners of this unit had a vision to create the ultimate urban oasis within the heart of the city. They meticulously designed and built a rooftop sauna, providing residents with a luxurious retreat to unwind and rejuvenate while taking in the breathtaking city views. Adjacent to the sauna, a spacious outdoor area was also crafted, offering a tranquil escape where residents can bask in the sun, host gatherings with friends, or simply enjoy a quiet moment surrounded by the beauty of the historic Washburn-Crosby building and the bustling cityscape. This thoughtful addition not only adds to the allure of the penthouse condominium but also elevates the overall living experience for those fortunate enough to call it home.
Photography by Scott Amundson