Three years ago, StuartCo, BKV Group and Kraus-Anderson joined forces to bring a new kind of residential building to Edina, MN. Located on the site of the first enclosed climate-controlled mall in the country, the high-end apartment building, One Southdale Place, was envisioned with luxury in mind. The team wanted to offer residents the best of both worlds – a suburban-meets-urban experience – where nature and close-knit communities blend with art, culture and plenty of city flavor.
Leading with Design and Capability
When it came time to design the 232-unit, 10-story building, the team looked at Pella's fiberglass windows because of their large combination window capability and excellent energy efficiency. "StuartCo wanted to install large windows, and they wanted those windows to be as structurally sound as they were aesthetically pleasing," says Jamie Engelsma, project manager at Kraus-Anderson Construction Company. As Pella sales representative Dan Headley walked the team through its options, StuartCo selected the Pella® Impervia® fiberglass line for its versatility, strength, durability and thermal efficiency. "Dan was great working with the entire team on options for the windows," Engelsma says. "Because of his service and expertise, the team was able to make informed decisions. The end result is a beautiful building for Edina. The large windows look great from the exterior and allow in a ton of light for the residents."
Fiberglass Solutions
With a five-layer, interlocking fiberglass composite, Pella's Duracast® material stands up to the harsh Minnesota winters and is one of the strongest, most durable materials available in the window and door category. Another draw for the One Southdale Place team was that the windows had been previously utilized in a 22-story building. One Southdale Place features three buildings connected by a lobby and skyways. With a total of 232 units, the complex includes an 11th-floor skydeck swimming pool, putting green, 24-hour concierge service, 1,500-square-foot fitness center, expansive club room and private theater, along with other amenities.
Urban Living
Because the facility is situated next to the shopping center, residents can walk to retail stores and restaurants. From fine dining to high-end retail, there are numerous options just steps away. There are also recreational trails and grocery stores within walking distance. "We've heard from a lot of people who like the idea of urban living but also like the convenience of living in the suburbs," says Lisa Moe, president and chief executive officer of StuartCo. "This gives them both worlds. It's half urban and half suburban." The complex is truly the first of its kind and potentially the start of a micro housing trend. According to a story from the Wall Street Journal, developers are converting several U.S. shopping malls into developments that feature multifamily apartment buildings. Thanks to Pella Impervia windows and patio doors, One Southdale Place residents will enjoy views that make every day feel like an urban getaway.
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