Peavey Plaza, on Nicollet Mall, is a notable example of modernist architecture. Built in 1974 on designs by landscape architect M. Paul Friedberg, it was a contributing factor in the rehabilitation of Minneapolis's core and became integral to the life of downtown. Nevertheless, it hit a period of decline and by the turn of the century was in decay. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) in 2012, spurring the revitalization of the site by 2020.
Scope
106 Group joined the revitalization team to provide interpretive planning services from concept development through final installation of interpretive elements onsite. Our process began with a series of workshops with the city and public engagement sessions with the community in order to define interpretive themes and audiences. This collaboration continued through the design phases to result in a creative solution that gives the context and meaning to the site.
Outcome
Our interpretation at Peavey Plaza serves as an accepted means of mitigation for adverse effects to this NRHP-listed property during revitalization. The final designs take a modernist approach that emphasizes minimal effects on the historic fabric and is welcoming for all. It includes a bronze tactile model of the Plaza as originally designed, complete with Braille and raised letters, that was prototyped as a 3D-printed model.
