Saxon - North Loop

Element partnered with ownership to lead the retail leasing strategy for Saxon, a mixed-use development with 6,288 SF in Minneapolis' North Loop. The goal was to curate a complementary mix of neighborhood-serving tenants that would activate the street level, enhance the resident experience, and contribute to the vibrancy of one of the city's fastest-growing neighborhoods.

Role
Retail Leasing, Tenant Advisory, Marketing Strategy, and Project Positioning

Opportunity & Challenges
As a new mixed-use development entered an increasingly competitive North Loop market, the success of the project depended on more than simply leasing storefronts. Ownership sought retailers that would strengthen the building's identity, serve the surrounding community, and create an engaging pedestrian experience while complementing the neighborhood's evolving character.

Approach
Element developed and executed a targeted retail leasing strategy focused on local, experience-driven businesses that would activate the streetscape throughout the day. The team marketed the project to prospective retailers, advised ownership on tenant mix, and negotiated leases that aligned with the long-term vision for the development.

Results
→ Successfully leased the project's retail spaces to complementary local businesses
→ Helped establish Bellecour as a neighborhood destination following its Winter 2025 opening
→ Curated a tenant mix focused on food, beverage, and community-serving retail
→ Activated the street level to enhance the resident and neighborhood experience
→ Strengthened the development's long-term positioning within the North Loop retail market