JI Case

An 80,000 SF historic restoration for JI Case in Minneapolis, MN.

Fast Facts

  • 80,000 SF
  • Client: Sherman & Associates
  • Architect/Design Team: Blumentals Architecture, Inc.
  • Minneapolis, MN

Features

  • Office & co-working spaces
  • Rooftop patio addition
  • Fitness & sauna amenities
Historic entrance with dark wood paneling, antique lantern-style light fixtures, an elevator, and mailboxes beside a staircase.

Project goals

Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2021, the JI Case Building presented an opportunity to thoughtfully reimagine a historic landmark for modern use while preserving its character

Sherman Associates' primary goal was to relocate its corporate offices from the second floor and basement to the building's third floor. The renovated second floor now features co-working space connected to the third floor with a feature staircase.

Close up of wooden stairs
Wood-clad staircase with black wire mesh railings leading up to a lounge seating area beneath exposed timber ceiling beams.
Wooden staircase with platform partway up featuring two chairs

Repurposing materials

The Gardner team actively looked for ways to repurpose materials that were demoed throughout the project

For example, the wood from the demo to create the stairwell in the Sherman Associates office was infilled in other places throughout the two-level office space.

The project team had to be in frequent communication with the state to make sure all historic pieces of the building were preserved in a way that followed the National Register’s policies. 

Large wooden staircase connecting two open floors in a cowarking space. Two people sit on the stairs.
Office space with exposed wood and cieling ductwork and modern cubicles
Nook in office space featuring a chairs and a fireplace

Problem Solving in Action

Restoring a historic space can come with many challenges that require patience, flexibility, and extra care

One of the biggest challenges on the project was removing the original roof structure. The team spent months determining the right plan and sequence. Construction ultimately included creating a secondary roof on the floor below to act as the roof as the old roof and structure were removed.   

Aerial view of a rooftop under construction with wood framing, building materials, and a red crane amid the city skyline.
Rooftop deck with cornhole boards and outdoor sofas overlooking the city skyline at sunrise.

An amenity rich future

Thoughtfully designed workplaces have a meaningful impact on the employee experience

Along with a rooftop patio, Sherman employees now enjoy access to a fitness center, bike storage, and a variety of shared spaces designed for connection and collaboration.

Office space with pool table in the foreground and kitchen in the background. Two people stand by the counter.
Cedar-lined sauna with tiered benches, a wood bucket and ladle, rolled towels, and a small window.
Lounge with grey outdoor-style furniture facing a folding glass door open to a pool deck with adjacent brick building views.

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