Monks Avenue Development
Mankato, MN | Housing
Overview
A tired 1970s era, partially empty single-story retail center was transformed into a modern, three-story mixed-use development just one block east of the Minnesota State University, Mankato, campus.
Opportunity
Located near a busy university campus, the retail center on the Monks Avenue Development could accommodate a major addition that would satisfy the high demand for student housing in the area.
Solution
ISG designed a new 28,500 sq. ft., two-story addition on top of a former single-story retail center for student residential apartments. The lower level of this building was completely renovated for both existing and new tenants who wanted to reach customers in this revitalized development next to the busy campus. To accommodate the increasing and diverse student housing needs in the area, two-, three-, and four-bedroom units were added on both upper floors for a total of 22 units. The development was fully leased before it was completed due to high demand for the units, which include expansive bedrooms, multiple bathrooms, open kitchen designs featuring a center island and tabletop bar, hardwood flooring, and contemporary ceramic-tiled bathroom floors.
The existing concrete block walls of the original building remain, but new exterior metal panels with contrasting colored stucco walls have rejuvenated the façade. A modern design with expansive windows on all three levels revitalized the site into a contemporary, mixed-use destination for housing, restaurants, and services.