Unveiling The Pillsbury Castle: How You Can Tour This Historic Minneapolis Mansion
Discover the Pillsbury Castle’s spectacular transformation in Minneapolis this summer. Experience the magic of history and design intertwined. 🏰 #News #Minneapolis #Events
The Pillsbury Castle: A Historical Marvel Reimagined
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – Step into a world where history and design collide! The Pillsbury Castle, an architectural treasure in Minneapolis, is set to reveal its stunning makeover during the ASID Design Home 2024 tour.
From July 12-28, visitors will have the rare opportunity to explore this majestic mansion, reimagined by top designers and remodelers. Don’t miss the chance to witness the grandeur of a bygone era brought to life with contemporary flair.
A Journey Through History and Design
The Pillsbury Castle, a magnificent Tudor Revival mansion in Minneapolis, invites visitors to witness a stunning blend of historical architecture and modern design. Built in 1903 for Alfred F. Pillsbury, this historic home is now the centerpiece of the ASID Design Home 2024 tour, in collaboration with NARI.
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Alfred F. Pillsbury: A Legacy of Flour and Philanthropy
Alfred Fiske Pillsbury, born in 1876, was the youngest of four children in a prominent Minneapolis family. His father, John S. Pillsbury, co-founded the Pillsbury milling company and served as the eighth Governor of Minnesota.
Alfred graduated from the University of Minnesota’s College of Law in 1894 and continued the family legacy in both business and philanthropy. The Pillsbury family’s contributions to the milling industry and the University of Minnesota remain significant to this day.
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An Architectural Gem
Originally built for Alfred F. Pillsbury, the mansion stands as a testament to early 20th-century opulence. The Tudor Revival style is evident in the home’s intricate design, from its rock-faced Platteville limestone exterior to its grand interiors featuring hand-carved Honduran Mahogany and Quartersawn white oak.
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A Modern Makeover
Rebranded as the Pillsbury Castle in 2023, the mansion has undergone a breathtaking transformation. The ASID Design Home 2024 tour showcases 30 custom-designed spaces, including original wood-paneled walls and high-end finishes. Visitors can explore four levels of magnificent architecture, from the Great Hall and Music Room to a hidden speakeasy and a plush home theater.
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Exterior Elegance
Constructed at a cost of $135,000 in 1903, the Alfred F. Pillsbury House is a two-and-one-half-story mansion featuring local rock-faced Platteville limestone. The design reflects the English Tudor Gothic style, with projecting bays, gables, and an asymmetrical facade.
The exterior is adorned with a projecting two-story entrance bay topped by a balustrade, creating an impressive entryway. The abundance of window space, framed by carved limestone mullions, adds to the structure’s grandeur. The roof, with its broadside gables and ornate dormers, completes the castle-like appearance.
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Interior Splendor
The interior of the Pillsbury Castle boasts 10,600 square feet of stunning architectural features. The main level includes the Great Hall, Music Room, Grand Salon, Kitchen, and Art Gallery, all adorned with intricate woodwork. The Great Hall features Quartersawn Oak paneling and a grand curved oak staircase with a carved banister.
The Dining Room is wrapped with Flame Mahogany judges paneling and boasts a five-window bay with leaded glass windows. The Reception Room and Great Room are equally impressive, with detailed oak wainscoting, ornate plasterwork, and a grand fireplace framed by carved walnut arches.
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Ascending the grand staircase leads to premier bedrooms and en suite bathrooms, each with unique custom features. The lower level offers a luxurious lounge, home theater, hidden speakeasy, wine cellar, and a billiards room set against the backdrop of a 17th-century English library.
A Collaborative Effort
Thirty ASID designers and eight NARI remodelers have reimagined the Alfred F. Pillsbury Mansion, bringing together the best of remodeling, interior design, and preservation. This collaboration celebrates fine furnishings, emerging art, trending building products, and cutting-edge technology.
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Tour Information
Public Tours:
- Dates: July 12-28, 2024
- Days: Wednesday-Sunday
- Hours: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm (Last entry at 3:15 pm)
- Closed: Monday-Tuesday
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Tickets:
- For ticket information, visit their website here
- Price: $35 (General Admission)
- Note: Tickets are non-refundable and sold in 15-minute increments.
Location:
- Address: 116 East 22nd Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Landmark: Directly across from Washburn Fair Oaks Park and the Minneapolis Institute of Art
Know Before You Go: The Pillsbury Castle
Parking: Limited street parking is available around the neighborhood. Consider using public transportation or rideshare services.
Accessibility: The tour includes multiple levels. While efforts have been made to accommodate all visitors, some areas may not be fully accessible.
Photography: Photography is allowed, but flash and professional equipment are prohibited to preserve the home’s integrity.
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Guidelines: Visitors are encouraged to respect the historic nature of the home and follow the guidelines provided by the tour organizers.
Discover the Magic
The Pillsbury Castle offers a rare glimpse into Minneapolis’ architectural history, reimagined with contemporary flair. Whether you’re a history buff, a design enthusiast, or simply looking for an inspiring day out, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.
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