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Element brought its tenant advisory and project management services to deliver a new home for the Loring Nicollet Alternative School (LNAS), a program of the non-profit Project for Pride in Living (PPL), within an aggressive timeframe to minimize disruption for LNAS students.
LNAS sought a new space that addressed key factors like transit accessibility, greenspace proximity, and adequate parking for staff, while also providing a functional and inspiring learning environment for students and staff. Element conducted a comprehensive search across various Twin Cities neighborhoods for both lease and purchase options, ultimately delivering strategic off-market solution with a community-minded landlord sharing PPL's values of creating a respectful and safe space for all students.
The chosen site, strategically located on Harmon Place near Metro State University, presented both opportunities and complexities. Although the full second-floor vacancy initially posed a size mismatch, Element's vision and innovative approach to finding creative solutions, led to Element working with the landlord and tenant to sub-divide the vacancy into two suites with contributions by both the tenant and landlord. With a lease secured in November 2023, Element worked closely with Gardner Builders to coordinate a rapid buildout over the holidays, overseeing contracting, design management, construction pricing, and closeout. Students were able to seamlessly transition to the new space by February 2024, coinciding with the sale of their former property. The new sun-filled LNAS space features secure access, waiting area, classrooms, offices, copy facilities, restrooms, cafeteria, and a lounge, reflecting Element's close collaboration and mutual commitment to functional, modern, and community-centric design.
Element's expertise in project management services, strategic partnerships, and market analysis was pivotal in delivering a customized real estate solution for LNAS students and staff. The close collaboration with LNAS staff, building ownership, and contractor ensured a seamless transition, from the initial assessment of space needs to the signing of a lease and the implementation of a customized buildout solution.
