Basilica of St. Mary

Sacred Space

Miller Dunwiddie’s relationship with the Basilica of St. Mary goes back to 1991, when it first embarked on a long-term plan to reinvigorate this iconic piece of Minneapolis history.

Over the decades, the firm has guided a detailed restoration of the Basilica that draws on significant experience with faith buildings and historical architecture. Constructed in the early 1900s, time had taken a toll on the church and its campus buildings. We created a timeline for maintenance and restoration activities that would minimize disruption while prioritizing safety and project success. A major and highly visible was the replacement of the entire copper roof and dome; the new installation hewing very closely to architect Emmanuel Masqueray’s original plans. We also restored intricate stained glass and storm windows, repaired stone walls and chapel spaces, and remodeled the rectory. The work has touched all four campus buildings. This special part of the skyline will awe generations to come.