The reconstruction of a locally adored but dated thoroughfare in downtown Minneapolis required careful consideration, as the existing streetscape was lit to higher than average levels with inconsistent and exposed sources. Aiming to reduce visual clutter, eliminate glare, and increase efficiency, the streetscape lighting became a unifying element for the entire district. Slender, high-mast poles with low-glare LED heads provide all of the ambient light for the street and adjacent public spaces. Glowing beacons on top of the poles and special moments of immersive lighting experiences further enhance the new identity of the 12-block stretch. Each pole was individually detailed and coordinated to house items such as signage, traffic signals, security equipment and decorative banners. The color-changing glowing beacons on top of each pole, may be set depending on local events, time of year, and branding opportunities.

Each beacon is individually addressable, allowing for dynamic light shows that visually link the entire twelve block site from afar. Pockets of seating and landscaping with up-lit trees are dispersed throughout the project, in both raised and below grade planting beds, reinforcing the landscape greenery as a continuous and important project component. A section of seating dubbed the ‘reading room’ includes custom pedestrian scale outdoor floor lamps of a more intimate scale creating an inviting setting for pedestrians to pause. On two central blocks, a repetitive set of light armatures support mirrored fins. These armatures contain color changing linear LED fixtures set to lively and vibrant light shows, which appear to follow pedestrians as they walk through the structure. The mirrored fins reflect the sidewalk from one direction and the sky from the other, creating a dynamic environment both at night and during the day.

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