The Maple Grove (MN) Public Works facility is located on a 40 acre site that allows for consolidation of a wide range of public works functions.  With longevity and minimal environmental impact in mind, the facility was designed to be durable while incorporating operational efficiencies.  Located across from a residential area, the architectural design includes a façade that complements the neighborhood.

Approximately 12,000 sq. ft. of Dri-Design .080 aluminum panels finished in Black Anodized was utilized.  The Dri-Design Wall Panel System is an affordable dry joint, pressure-equalized rainscreen system.

Design for the project was provided by Oertel Architects, St. Paul. MN.  “We chose the Dri-Design system right away because of our success with it on several other projects,” said Andrew Cooper, project and design architect.  “And we really liked the way the Black Anodized creates a marbling effect.  Every panel has a different tone of black that offers nice character and complexity to the finish.”

In addition to the Dri-Design panels, the material palette includes an interesting mix of masonry, glass and limestone rocks contained in black, vinyl-coated Gabion baskets.  “We like the contrast of the rough texture of the Gabion with the smooth texture of the metal panels,” Cooper said.  “The neighbors didn’t want to look at a typical precast box.”

Installation of the Dri-Design panels was completed by Minnkota Architectural Products Co., Osseo, MN.  “The Dri-Design team was involved in the preparation of the shop drawings and played a key role in determining panel sizes to achieve maximum efficiency while presenting the desired appearance,” according to Joel Meyer.  Meyer was responsible for estimating and bidding the job.