MN Veterans Home | Building 21
Minneapolis, MN
Honoring Service with Compassionate Care and Thoughtful Design
Mohagen Hansen Architecture | Interiors collaborated with the State of Minnesota and the Minnesota Veterans Home to provide planning, architectural, and interior design services for the replacement of Building 17 North on the Minneapolis Veterans Home Campus. The project involved a two-phase approach: first, demolishing the northern half of Building 17, followed by the construction of a new, state-of-the-art 100-bed skilled nursing facility and a commercial campus kitchen. The four-story building is thoughtfully designed to enhance both resident care and operational efficiency. It features three levels dedicated to resident living, a first-floor public space, and a lower level housing a commercial kitchen and support areas serving the entire campus.
The exterior design integrates thin brick cladding on precast concrete walls, complementing the architectural character of the campus, where five buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Physically connected to the recently constructed Building 19, the new facility benefits from shared public spaces, improved accessibility, and centralized administrative functions.
Resident floors are structured into two "neighborhoods," each housing 15–17 residents, following a Person-Centered Care model that fosters community and individualized support. Each floor includes neighborhood dining areas, encouraging social interaction and staff engagement. Every spacious resident room features a private, fully accessible bathroom, ensuring comfort and dignity. Lounge and activity spaces are available throughout, providing residents and visitors with welcoming areas for relaxation and connection.
Project Testimonial
