Public Appearances: A Utilitarian Building Becomes a Community Jewel

County Public Works buildings are often viewed as secondary structures. They are often relegated to marginal sites due to their utilitarian nature. Because of the beauty and visibility of its new site, the new 242,000 square foot Hennepin County Public Works Facility challenged the design team to expand the client's expectations. The project afforded the chance to go beyond the functional - embracing community, environmental, and aesthetic opportunities.

Located on a rolling prairie, the complex is the central facility for the design, operation, and maintenance of the county's highway system. The main structures were designed as a sweeping arc at the ridge of a plateau to avoid wetlands and to shield neighbors from noise.

Other unique features include a waste water recycling system, special drains and tanks to contain fuel spills and salt-water runoff, extensive daylighting, and the use of recycled materials throughout.