We were all surprised by the sudden death of one of the partners to the 128 year-old building that is being renovated at the corner of 5th and Hennepin in downtown Minneapolis. My design for Liquid, a restaurant and night club, had progressed slowly due to the lack of funds for the complete transformation. Sadly, a casual friend, and one of the owners, died suddenly during an afternoon in early April. Sal was a generous gentleman from Egypt and the one who requested I lead the design effort for their renovation.
His passing has held up design fees, and needless to say, financially was most distressing – patience and prayers were required by all. . .
By the end of the month, his partner in the building had decided to fund the exterior portion of the renovation and promised payment for my efforts – thank you, Rodney. . .
My celebration did not end there. During the month, a basement fire destroyed an older building across from Children’s Hospital in Minneapolis (circa 1924) that I had previously designed a front façade make-over for. The building was home to a forgettable older restaurant and a dilapidated corner grocery store.
I have been commissioned for the new design. The concept will include a new, bright and airy restaurant with some sidewalk terrace dining, a new neighborhood, corner grocery and possibly under-ground parking and up to 24 housing units above the retail – Hopefully Children’s Hospital Board will give the design concept their blessing…
I am so blessed to have been offered this opportunity. An opportunity to create inviting spaces where patients, parents, family, friends and hospital staff can step out of the hospital for a moment to enjoy a breath of fresh air, a savory snack or entrée and a tasty treat – through the efforts of many, it will become a blessing continued each time patients, loved ones and staff venture across the street. Thank You, Lord.
Lord, forgiveness though – the topless dancers at Augie’s Cabaret have noticed I am 1/3 the way to achieving my weight loss goal and they remain intent on giving this Catholic woman the pole dancing lessons they promised. (Rodney owns the topless club that shares the first floor of our renovation project).
What attire, or should I ask, how little and what outfit should I wear during my debut? (before hours, of course) Strappy heels I have, suggestions please on what to pair them with . . .