Metropolitan Building

The Metropolitan Building, also known as the Guaranty Loan Building, of Minneapolis, Minnesota is considered to be one of the most architecturally-significant structures in the city's history. It stood from 1890 until it was torn down starting in 1961 as part of major urban renewal efforts in the city that saw about 40% of the downtown district razed and replaced with new structures. At the time, the pending destruction of the building provided a catalyst for the growth of a desire for historic preservation in the city and across the state.

The building is considered by some to be the city's first skyscraper, with 12 stories and standing 218 ft (66m) tall. Small observation towers poked up above the corners. It was built of granite and sandstone, with the interiors dressed in antique oak. A large skylight allowed the interior to be safely lit in a time when the electric light was rare (though the building was eventually wired), and the floors of walkways circling the center court were translucent to allow more light to filter through. Architect E. Townsend Mix designed the building. Many of the city's most prestigious companies had offices in the Metropolitan.

References

• David Hawley (October 11, 2002). St. Paul Pioneer Press.