KYLE PALZER
AIA Minnesota 2022 Young Architects Award Recipient

Hennepin Tower
Located along the Mississippi National River and Recreational Area operated by the National Park Service, the site is located at the edge of Downtown Minneapolis and at the terminus of Hennepin and Nicollet avenues in the area known as the Gateway District, formerly the center core of Minneapolis.
This project involved the creation of a mixed-use 34 story tower along the Mississippi River. The project intent was to better connect downtown with the river through circulation, program, and urban design. The project also connects with the nearby historic post office to utilize future retail within to help activate the site at all times.
The tower itself acts to point towards the river through its form to create a visual connection with the important natural feature. The circulation also connects people with the river, this is done with a cable stayed pedestrian bridge and ramp to overcome the 20’ drop from the street to river level.

View from University Avenue
Site Evolution

Existing Condition

Tower Placement

Post Office Connection

Site Proposal


Site Plan
East Elevation of Site and Tower


Night Lighing of Site and Tower
Preserving Views and Historic Facades

Rooftop Fire Pit with Tower Form Protection Wall

Rooftop Boche Ball Court


Activity Plaza using Building Form Planters
Program Separation at Roof. Left-Garden, Right-Patio