As the airport’s first hotel, InterContinental Hotel marked an exciting occasion for the Minneapolis St. Paul International Airport. Located between two active runways, the project focused on noise control to create a relaxing, quiet experience for guests. 

Construction of the building envelope was key to soundproof hotel suites. We designed exterior walls and window systems with added insulation, extra layers of glass and large air spaces between glass panes to achieve the ultimate sound transmission class.  

As an added benefit for guests, a skywalk connects the hotel to the neighboring airport. We worked closely with airport building officials to ensure the skywalk maintained all security protocols and no unauthorized individuals had access to the site. 

A phased occupancy plan allowed the hotel to open lower levels while upper levels were completed.

The hotel is situated between two active runways which provided unique challenges during construction. We worked closely with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and airport operations to continuously monitor both the building’s and the construction equipment’s height to eliminate impacts to air traffic control.  

Manufacturing changes to the exterior cladding system were put into place as final products were being ordered. The changes required a move from cementitious panels to metal panels, a change that could have proven costly. We worked with the architect to develop new shop drawings within a week that used larger panel sizes to lower costs and maintain schedule.  

Guests traveling through the Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport now have a dreamlike hotel where they can catch up on sleep, host their next convention or relax at the full-service spa.