The Radisson Blu Minneapolis is opening this July, the fourth property for the upscale European lifestyle brand in North America. New York-based Stonehill & Taylor led the architecture and interior design of the hotel along with design consultants Graven Images of Scotland and the John Hardy Group as manager.
“The design marries distinct influences from the region-the character and history of Minnesota-with the high-end contemporary look that embodies Carlson Rezidor’s brand DNA,” says Michael Suomi, design director of Stonehill & Taylor. “Many Minnesotan families and businesses can trace their origins to early settlers from Scandinavia, where the Radisson brand also has its roots. We honed in on this intersection in creating the hotel’s new look.”
The reception lobby was reconfigured to include a giant domed pendant fixture, which hangs from the 16-story atrium. Now a series of gathering spaces that flow into each other, the lobby boasts Scandinavian influences and mid-century style.
The FireLake Restaurant has a welcoming rustic look inspired by Minnesotan landscape and industries, with details in copper, steel, and other rough finishes. The wood that clads the majority of the restaurant’s walls, columns, beams. and ceilings was reclaimed from old barns throughout Minnesota, then cut and dressed into very straight planks.
On the 2nd and 3rd floors, art galleries celebrate the architecture and history of Minneapolis. Inspired by the character of the city, the majority of pieces are made by local artists, like abstract oil urbanscapes by Michael Schmidt and large-scale photographs by Heidi Hermes. The extensive art program is also carried into the guestrooms and guest corridors.
