Revel Apartments: Innovative Engineering for Modern Mixed-Use Spaces

Project Overview

BKBM provided structural and civil engineering services for Revel Apartments, a 207,000-square-foot mixed-use development in Minneapolis’ Uptown along Lake Street. The six-story building features two levels of below-grade parking, prominent street-level commercial space, and residential units on levels 2–6.

Project Highlights

  • Mixed-Use Urban Design:
    • Two levels of underground parking maximize site utility in a tight urban footprint.
    • Street-level commercial, including a Target store, with soaring 20-foot floor-to-floor heights for open, flexible retail space.
    • Residential units on upper floors provide modern city living in a vibrant neighborhood.
  • Structural Innovations:
    • Permanent steel sheet pile foundations installed on three sides of the site, tight to existing property lines; cast-in-place concrete foundation wall adjacent to an existing permanent sheet pile on the west.
    • Temporary and permanent lateral support systems protected and stabilized neighboring structures during deep excavation.
    • Hanging concrete columns used to support a mezzanine floor and patio space over a structured drive lane—maximizing space and amenity options.
    • Wood-framed “shadow boxes” cantilever from the building face at select balconies, providing architectural distinction and enhanced unit experience.
  • Civil Engineering Excellence:
    • Site design incorporated challenging grading, utility planning, and tight coordination with adjacent properties, ensuring code compliance and long-term site performance.

Engineering Solutions

BKBM collaborated with the architect and contractor to deliver innovative structural solutions for deep excavation, high retail volumes, adjacent building support, and distinctive residential amenities. The civil team ensured site utility, stormwater, and grading solutions that addressed complex urban context challenges.

Results & Impact

Revel Apartments delivers contemporary, flexible living and commercial opportunities in the heart of Uptown. BKBM’s structural and civil engineering expertise enabled bold design choices and maximized space, contributing to the building’s lively character and long-term urban success.