Designers propose restoring Lot D waterfront while accommodating industrial constraints

Architecture Advantage and partners framed Lot D as both an opportunity and a constraint: adjacency to the Saint Louis River Estuary and existing industrial slips mean the site requires careful civil engineering and materials selection. Melissa and Marcello highlighted the site’s “industrial use” history and said the design must account for corrosive conditions near Compass Minerals.

Marcello described design possibilities that would restore the site while enhancing public waterfront access, suggesting covered walkways, a tower that provides a lake view, daylighting strategies, and flexible outdoor public spaces. “We can also imagine a project that not only restores but enhances the public access to the waterfront,” Marcello said, arguing the design should link the building to the water while supporting research operations.

The presenters noted they have included civil engineer Craig Ojard and cultural resource consultant the 106 Group to coordinate site preparation and respect cultural significance related to Chief Buffalo’s reservation. They also warned that timing depends in part on developer-funded site readiness and that the team’s role is to provide LLO and the university the necessary information to advance goals.