Luxury Suspended Fireplace in the Historic Washburn Crosby Lofts
Aug 26, 2024 5:26:51 PM
A statement fireplace for a historic Minneapolis Penthouse.
Project Snap Shot
Property: Washburn Crosby Penthouse
Fireplace: Focus Filiofocus Suspended Fireplace
Fuel Type: Wood Burning
Design Challenge: Historic Building Venting and Visibility Constraints
Project Partners: All Seasons Fireplace- Brandson Builders- MSR Architecture
The history behind the Washburn Crosby Lofts.
The origin 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.
The historical significance of this Minneapolis landmark
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.
Historic relic transitions from industrial building to luxury residence
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.