The American Indian Magnet School (AIMS), in Saint Paul, recently completed a four-year renovation that transformed both the historic 1926 building and the surrounding site. The project included a three-story classroom addition, full interior updates, and a complete reconfiguration of campus circulation, all while the school remained open to students and staff. H+U Construction led the pre-construction phase and supported the district through an extensive planning effort to ensure that learning continued without major disruption.
Throughout construction, the team uncovered structural conditions that required significant repair, a common challenge in buildings of this age. The project also incorporated Indigenous design principles, including the Circle space and the Long House, which now serve as the cafeteria and library. With design leadership from Cuningham and the involvement of Native American architect Sam Olbekson, the renovation honors the school’s cultural focus and provides students with a welcoming and inspiring environment.
American Indian Magnet School
Address: 1075 Third St. E., St. Paul.
Project size: 131,600 square feet
Owner: Saint Paul Public Schools
Contractor: H+U Construction
Architect: Cuningham
Engineer: BKBM Engineers (civil and structural); Hallberg Engineering (mechanical)
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https://finance-commerce.com/2025/07/top-projects-of-2024-american-indian-magnet-school/