Minnesota limestone adds warmth to corporate campus
The seven-building facility is primarily constructed of Northern Buff Minnesota limestone, which is indigenous to the state of Minnesota, and sand-molted brick. The limestone, which was supplied by Vetter Stone Co. of Kasota, MN, was selected for its local ties as well as its warm aesthetic appeal. Several different samples of limestone were viewed before the final selection was made, according to the designer, who added that the material played a vital role in the project?s design. "The stone was selected early on because it was important to establish the tone of the project," said Blanski.
In fact, the exterior material palette for building was determined even before the master plan was established, which was a rare occurrence, according to the designer. An 8- x 8-foot panel mock-up of the stone and brick was created a year and a half prior to construction. "We had even decided the mortar details in advance," said Blanski.