Hennepin Made Instameet Recap
Early in January crowds of people turned out for the joint Instameet between Preserve Minneapolis and MN Community hosted by Hennepin Made in their new space at 144 Glenwood Avenue. Hennepin Made fabricates speciality lighting and other glass products for retailers throughout the U.S. Demonstrations of the glass blowing technique fascinated the crowd as a glassmith expertly crafted a wine glass, giving step by step instructions along the way.The company, founded in 2011, quickly outgrew their space on East Hennepin Avenue and began the search of a new building to house their unique glass blowing operation. In 2016, Hennepin Made came upon the 1954 Ford McNutt Sheet Glass building and knew it was the right fit for them. They were drawn by the West Loop neighborhood and the historic feel of the building with its high ceilings and beautiful motique in the front entrance terrazzo flooring. The location near the farmer's market was another draw.
Hennepin Made is planning to reuse the 30,000 square foot shop for their hot shop which houses a continuous furnace where the glass blowing occurs, their offices, and a new retail store. They also plan to build lease space for shared creative work spaces and a cafe. The 7,000 square foot atrium will be available to rent for events. The plan is to have all work completed by late Spring 2017. To learn more about Hennepin Made visit their website at www.hennepinmade.com.
Authored By: Stephanie Rouse
