The Twin Cities – Minneapolis and St. Paul – are home to some of the most iconic and beautiful architecture in the Midwest. From the striking IDS Center to the modern marvel of the Guthrie Theater, the area boasts a skyline and urban landscape that reflect both historical charm and contemporary innovation. But for every architectural masterpiece, there’s bound to be a structure that doesn’t quite hit the mark.
When it comes to the ugliest building in the Twin Cities, opinions vary widely, and debates can get pretty lively. However, one building has gained a unique reputation that makes it stand out above the rest. Enter 1600 Spruce Tree, a St. Paul office building located on University Avenue, a structure so divisive that it’s simultaneously loved, hated, and mocked by those who drive past it daily. Some call it the “Shower Building,” while others affectionately refer to it as “the Emerald City” or, more bluntly, “the Bathroom Tile Building.”
A Contender for the Ugliest Title: 1600 Spruce Tree
1600 Spruce Tree seems to be the number one contender for the ugliest building in the Twin Cities, primarily because it simply does not blend in. Many describe it as a monolithic, dark green structure with a tiled facade that gives off the unfortunate vibe of being wrapped in bathroom tiles. Passersby are quick to compare it to a public restroom or a glorified Minecraft creation, and some have even gone so far as to say it looks like a building that was designed in a failed CAD software program.
Interestingly, despite all this animosity, the building also has a cult following. Some people love it for exactly the reasons others hate it—it’s weird, blocky, and stands out in a way that no other building in the city does. It’s a love-hate relationship, but one thing’s for sure: you can’t pass by without noticing it.
“The Shower Building”
One of the most common nicknames for the building is “The Shower Building,” due to its tile-like appearance. The nickname makes a lot of sense—the building does have an awkward, tiled appearance that’s hard to ignore.
But what many find ugly, others find endearing. Some have humorously declared the building one of their favorites in the cities, claiming it “creeps me out but in an enjoyable way.” This strange affinity for the building has sparked countless debates, with people either expressing their disdain for its unattractive design or voicing their love for its distinct personality.
The Function Behind the Form
As bizarre as 1600 Spruce Tree may seem, it was built with a purpose in mind. In the late 1980s, the intersection of University and Snelling in St. Paul was known as a pollution hotspot, with the constant flow of buses from the nearby garage contributing to poor air quality. The building’s shape and smooth tile facade were actually designed to enhance airflow in the area, helping to mitigate air pollution.
While the functionality of the structure is a redeeming quality, it hasn’t won over critics of its aesthetics. Many agree that while they appreciate the thought behind the building’s purpose, the execution still leaves much to be desired.
The Divisive Nature of Ugly Buildings
What is it about ugly buildings that draws such strong reactions from people? Ugly architecture tends to inspire fierce opinions, likely because buildings are a part of our daily lives, whether we like it or not. The structures we pass by on our way to work, the landmarks that guide us through our cities, and the architecture that defines our skylines all contribute to the character of the urban landscape.
In the case of 1600 Spruce Tree, the ugliness might come from its alien nature in comparison to the surrounding buildings. It’s tall and covered in green tiles, which makes it look like an out-of-place relic from a different time or place. Some humorously note that it looks like it belongs in a dictatorship’s capital, which is probably not the look the architects were going for.
Despite the criticism, there are some who argue that the building’s sheer weirdness has made it a local landmark. Its strange design and towering presence make it impossible to ignore, and in some ways, that’s a win for any architectural endeavor. It may not be beautiful, but it certainly isn’t boring.
The Competition: Other Contenders for the Ugliest Building
While 1600 Spruce Tree might be the favorite for ugliest building, it’s certainly not without competition. Throughout the Twin Cities, other buildings have made their mark on people’s lists of architectural disasters. Here are a few other contenders:
- Riverside Plaza (Cedar-Riverside): Known by some as the “Crack Stacks,” Riverside Plaza is a massive brutalist housing complex that towers over the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood. Its concrete facade and brightly colored panels are considered either charmingly retro or unbearably garish, depending on who you ask.
- US Bank Stadium: The Vikings’ home stadium is one of the most divisive structures in the city. Some appreciate its modern design and colossal size, while others think it’s an eyesore that doesn’t fit with the surrounding architecture. Many call it a “scar” on the skyline, nicknaming it “The Sandcrawler” for its resemblance to a Star Wars vehicle.
- Moos Tower (University of Minnesota Campus): Another brutalist structure that looms large over the University of Minnesota campus. It’s often compared to a giant concrete tooth, and while some students and faculty members have grown to tolerate it, most agree it’s not winning any beauty contests.
- 33 South Sixth (City Center): A plain, brown box that dominates the Minneapolis skyline, 33 South Sixth has been called out for being not just ugly, but boring. In a city full of unique skyscrapers, its lack of personality and architectural effort makes it stand out for all the wrong reasons.
The Love-Hate Relationship with Ugly Buildings
1600 Spruce Tree is proof that even the ugliest buildings can become beloved over time. What makes something ugly? Is it the color? The design? The way it interacts with its surroundings? All of these factors come into play, but there’s also something deeply subjective about our reactions to architecture.
For some, 1600 Spruce Tree’s weirdness and quirkiness make it stand out in a way that’s charming, even if it’s not aesthetically pleasing. Ultimately, while beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, so is ugliness. And in the case of 1600 Spruce Tree, it seems like its bizarre charm might just save it from being the worst of the worst – even if it’s covered in what looks like bathroom tile.