Gateway22 Workplace

Pohlad Companies set out to design a consolidated office space to accommodate five distinct yet interrelated companies: Pohlad Companies, United Properties, Carousel Motor Group, Pohlad Family Foundation, and Pohlad Investment Management. Together these organizations occupy 70,900 square feet of leasable space on three floors of the new RBC Gateway Tower. This collective office space is branded as Gateway22. NTH, acting as the client representative and project manager, worked with the five organizations to develop the following project vision: “We will create a human experience within our space that is innovative, energetic, and dynamic where people want to work and that supports collaboration, communication, and future growth.”

As these companies moved during the height of a global pandemic, the primary goal was to create a unifying design concept that was both comfortable and cohesive—a space that felt human. The design team explored the diverse expression of a single natural material to enhance their office experience, through a richly detailed environment. The material quality of the space creates the innovative, energetic, and dynamic experience the companies envisioned.

The Pohlad Companies’ rich history and connection with the City of Minneapolis imbues the project, and the project interiors were planned with the urban context in mind. Historically the project site was the gateway to the City of Minneapolis from the Mississippi River while connecting the Central Business District to the North Loop. By locating the primary stair on the northern end of the floorplate, this three-story volume offers panoramic views down Hennepin Avenue to the River. Spaces that are positioned south toward the downtown core (the shared café, lounge spaces, and southern terrace) are privileged with views of the Minneapolis skyline.

The design team started the project with a robust programming phase to collect data and generate the requirements for the project. The team facilitated several engagement activities with client groups to gain insight, build consensus, and explore all aspects of the project. Input was sought from every level of each organization and standing committees were established to help the design team plan and manage the process. The success of this project can be measured, in part, by the team’s ability to lead stakeholders through a thoughtful and inclusive design process that leaves the occupants invested, inspired, and proud of their new workplace.

The design team applied the WELL Materials Concept to prioritize the health of occupants and minimize exposure to hazardous building material ingredients. Many products and furnishings selected demonstrate material disclosures or transparency labels, ensuring that products used are free from harmful compounds. Each office and workstation was designed to have a view to the perimeter glazing and access to natural light and views. Meeting WELL Criteria, 51-56% of regularly occupied spaces meet the standard to be within a 20-foot horizontal distance of envelope glazing on each floor. Offices further from the perimeter have full-height glass office fronts to allow for natural light in every workspace.