Knock, Inc, a creative design and branding company, relocated to a newly renovated headquarters on Glenwood Avenue in Minneapolis. The neglected 1960s commercial structure witnessed a total conversion due to the fresh and contemporary design of Julie Snow Architects.

The original building was constructed in two phases and consisted of a single story structure, built in 1960, with open-web, steel joist roof framing. Timber pile foundations, necessary due to the soft clay soils at the site, support this structure. The 1964 addition included a basement level with a concrete first floor matching the original floor elevation. Similarities in this addition included the open-web steel-joists and steel-decking roof structure, and the timber pile foundations. 

Much rework and detailing modifications to the original structure accompanied the conversion. New elements included an entry/vestibule structure along Glenwood Avenue and an elevated exterior deck at the rear displaying wonderful views of the downtown skyline. These additions required deep foundations. VAA engineers used drilled helical piers to support a concrete grade beam system.

Now occupied, the finished result serves as an inspiring example of what ingenuity and creativity can accomplish. VAA is very pleased to have contributed to this interesting and successful project.