TouchpointHappening

Cliche Photos - April 2010

2010-04-21T14:50:00.001-05:00

Designer - Kimberly Jurek

Fashion Model

FUN!!!

Studio on Fire in 5000 words - April 2010

2010-04-21T14:15:00.002-05:00

Fashion on Fire - April 2010

2010-04-06T15:23:00.001-05:00

It's true! Touchpoint's design team is weighted by women and we women are hitting the fashion scene on Friday night! After Studio on Fire's open house, we're headed over to local retailer Cliché, for a private viewing of designers Amanda Christine and Kjurek Couture's newest inspirations.

And a little about Cliché.
Cliché is a young hip clothing boutique for women located in Uptown Minneapolis. Cliché carries new and locally designed clothes that encourage a slight edge to your wardrobe. Cliché tries to stay forward on trend while maintaining a classic presence. Also, once a month there is a featured local artist’s work on the walls. Cliché loves to offer unique or one of kind items; therefore always looking for new artists and designers.

Studio on Fire - April 2010

2010-04-06T14:47:00.002-05:00

One of our favorite local letterpress studios, Studio on Fire, is having an open house. We are super excited to attend. If you haven't heard of them, we recommend that you check 'em out. Their innovative techniques and 'everything is possible' mantra is what keeps us coming back for more. You can also check out what's for sale at their store; we fancy their calendars.

As a side note; a Cleveland Institute of Art (CIA) alum works there. Ashley and Amanda are all about CIA kids in the Cities.

Retail Design Institute International Student Design Competition - May 2010

2010-04-06T14:30:00.001-05:00

The Minneapolis + St. Paul Retail Design Institute Chapter is hosting the 2010 International Student Store Design Competition. The Board is busy preparing the submission for an all day judging event. We're all very excited to be involved. Stay tuned for the award announcements!

Retail Design Institute Members Only Event - April 2010

2010-04-06T14:25:00.002-05:00

Nicollet Mall and the Irish | March 2010

2010-03-18T11:23:00.001-05:00

The Skyway Open | Benefitting the Boys and Girls Club

2010-03-02T12:02:00.009-06:00

Every February Minneapolitans escape the cold and infiltrate the skyways for a round or two of mini-golf with the Dowtown Network and US Bank fundraiser for the Boys and Girls Club. 18 holes are sponsored by local contractors and design firms; this being our second year. Together with our partners Tanek and Excel Fixtures we created a music scene montage and sound making experience. This theme was on point with the Downtown Network's request for a hole that is designed from the perspective of "Arts and Entertainment in the Downtown District." The Minneapolis music scene is rockin'!

You can check out the Skyway Open website which will soon be updated with photos and activites from this year and some news clips that are rumored to feature our hole.

For more information on the Boys and Girls Club please visit their website. It is a valuable resource in our city.

Anchor Bar, Superior WI - Authentic design!

2010-03-01T14:35:00.006-06:00

Check out the Anchor Bar in Superior, WI the next time you are near the North Shore. Beyond outstanding burgers, huge frosted beer mugs, and "mystery shots" you will spend your time checking out thousands of maritime decorations covering every inch of the place. Rumor is that decorations were given to the bar owner by patrons who couldn't afford to pay their tabs.

The Atlantis Quartet - February 2010

2010-02-23T13:37:00.004-06:00

Hi All,

We'd like to introduce you to one of our close friends, The Atlantis Quartet. They are an excellent local jazz band whom were featured in this month's Minneapolis/St.Paul Magazine.

Check them out on their website and don't miss their next gig!

Cheers,

Touchpoint

Lunch @ Modern Cafe_1.22.10

2010-02-03T16:32:00.002-06:00

Great food in a 1940's style diner.

Yes, Sir.

Maybe he forgot to tip?

Sampling of old fashion sugary soda and hot cocoa.

Amanda's Pork & Cabbage Pancakes....Who knew?

Grilled Cheese stuffed with squash, spinach & cranberry mustard + a side of Creamy Potato Soup.

Must be an inside joke : )

Vintage turn table @ Spinario Mid-Century Furnishings

2010-02-02T19:53:00.001-06:00

Little Finley Wren Hanson sporting her new Touchpoint hoodie.

NCIDQ Roundtable - January 2010

2010-01-26T16:36:00.005-06:00

Amanda is volunteering with IIDA Northland Chapter at the Education and Research Forum: NCIDQ Roundtable. She’ll be presenting study tips and stress decompression techniques to 2010 candidates.

Nicole in a Nutshell _ On Free Arts Minnesota - January 2010

2010-01-26T16:30:00.004-06:00

Nicole has been volunteering one day a week for the passed year at Free Arts Minnesota. This is what she has to say about her experience.... “I have been volunteering at Free Arts Minnesota for a year and it has been amazing. One night a week I go to a residential children’s facility located in Saint Paul. I get to unleash my inner crafter/painter/dancer (whatever the project may need) and hopefully help a child in the process...It doesn’t get much better than this!”

Ascending the Ranks - January 2010

2010-01-26T16:19:00.004-06:00

Climbing 18 ranks, Touchpoint is number 23 in VMSD’s Top 50 Retail Design Firms! Thanks to all our clients who made 2009 awesome!

Touchpoint New Hire - January 2010

2010-01-26T15:57:00.005-06:00

Lori Schmidt, our Senior Art Director joins us from an extensive background of graphic design, branding and print. Formerly with Best Buy, her creative endeavors are influenced by a multitude of interests and activities. She explores her creativity through photography, painting and the great outdoors. Additionally she volunteers with Big Brothers and Sisters, Compassion International, the Abundant Life Church and appreciates time spent with family, friends and boyfriend.

Nicole in a Nutshell _On Her Pursuit of Art November 2009

2010-01-26T15:38:00.003-06:00

Nicole loves to paint and is finishing up a Fine Arts degree a the University of Minnesota. This is what she has to say about her paintings...

“Oil on canvas. I love working with oil and electric colors. I’m not a fan of using artsy-critique talk but here it goes: ‘These pieces are an exploration of the role color plays in conveying emotion.’ Very deep.”

Exploring Maui - November 2009

2010-01-26T15:13:00.008-06:00

Location: Somewhere in the Pacific
The Quest: Locate and acquire one piece of Acacia Koa
Use: Tuning instruments (violin pegs)

November found Laila on the beautiful island of Maui for a week of R&R. Not one to lay on the beach for more than an hour, she set off on a two day adventure to find the perfect piece of Koa for her father. After exploring national forests, traversing a volcano, talking to the locals, and making friends with a local contractor and two cabinet makers…. Ah success!! This native species known for its beautiful curling grain and at one time used predominately by island royalty took a one way trip via the USPS to a violin shop in the Midwest.

No exaggeration here!

Minne-New York, a Well Kept Secret of the Midwest - Novemeber 2009

2010-01-25T15:19:00.002-06:00

The American Craft Council announced their move to Minneapolis. Apparently Minneapolis is where it’s at and it’s affordable too! We greatly anticipate access to their library and the influence it will bring to the City’s craft culture.

Have we mentioned that MPLS has the highest per capita seating for the theater arts.
Watch out Big Apple!!!

The Walker Art Center Jewelry Fair - November 2009

2010-01-25T15:11:00.002-06:00

Each of us at Touchpoint is bonded by our love of retail design - as well as our many interests and endeavors that almost always encompass design.

Amanda happens to be passionate about jewelry design and took advantage of attending the Global Jewelry Design Sale at the Walker Art Center. There she met Devon Driscol, a once New York and now MPLS jewelry artist who was originally trained in Interior Architecture. Her work explores natural relationships with bones, seed pods and some other unusual objects. After circling back to the table 4 times, she finally bought a necklace and looks forward to owning more of Devon’s work.

Twin Cities Happening - November 2009

2010-01-25T15:06:00.002-06:00

We are working on a super secret project that relates to an open air baseball stadium. We can hardly wait for those home plate tickets and a beautiful summer evening outdoors. This bitter cold site visit will gladly fade into our memories.

Mexico - October 2009

2010-01-25T15:02:00.003-06:00

Laila took a quick weekend trip to the village of Rosarito. She soaked up some sun and enjoyed some south-of-the-border sites and sounds and textures.

Oh, Baby! - October 2009

2010-01-25T15:01:00.001-06:00

Life has been busy for Ashley. Her sister had a baby girl named McKenzie making Ashley an aunt for the first time. She can hardly wait to get home for the holidays and hold the little bundle of cuteness.

Touchpoint New Hire - October 2009

2010-01-25T14:54:00.005-06:00

Remember our 2008 intern Ashley?! Well, after she completed her last year of college at the Cleveland Institute of Art and attended (2) 2009 glass programs at the prestigious Pilchuck Glass School she joined our team as a staff designer.

One more Clevelander for Minneapolis!

Amanda’s Halloween and the Coolest Volunteer Opportunity Ever - October 2009

2010-01-25T14:21:00.006-06:00

A friend was in town from New Orleans to participate in the Barebone’s Productions annual Halloween Extravaganza. Kirk (my husband) and I were able to volunteer and at 11 PM one night we arrived at Bedlam Theater’s spooky warehouse workshop. Here with 50 focused puppet makers, we were assigned the task of making a human organ lantern. A what? This weird and macabre task of molding tape around bamboo reeds and painting it red got me really excited to attend the show. The result of our blood, sweat and tears was a shiny glandular blob. Oops, making a realistic liver is hard without all the technological tools and software I use at work.

Devoured, inspired by Little Red Riding Hood, took place at Hidden Falls Park on the mighty Mississippi. It was well attended with over 1,000 people 3 nights in a row. The puppets were absolutely stunning, the iconography and visual imagery was highly effective and the 35 piece orchestra was outstanding. Particularly captivating were the dancing moths whom were hung among the trees. Once the majority of the performance was finished, the organs debuted! They lined the path leading to the river where songs were sung and ethereal projections engulfed the trees.

Following the show a New Orleans style jazz band performed while the shop keepers at the bazaar sold warm treats and other items supporting the troupe.

The pictures tell it all!

Touchpoint New Hire - September 2009

2010-01-25T14:17:00.004-06:00

Thrilled to join the collaborative Touchpoint, Minnesota native, Laila Gatts took a position as our new Retail Director. With a degree in architectural design, she brings 14 years of retail, entertainment and hospitality design and construction experience.

When she’s not thinking about our latest projects, she spends time with her beautiful 7 year old son Aiden and enjoys photography and traveling.

10 Reasons Why We Love The Pizza Farm - July 2009

2010-01-25T13:52:00.005-06:00

Located in Stockholm, Wisconsin (that’s about 2.5 hours south of Minneapolis)there is a secluded but must see pizza farm that is absolutely fabulous and a very special experience. Every Tuesday the Fisher-Bannen family hosts a pizza party at their farm and it’s open to the public. Come with picnic attire, friends, cash, and grab a spot on the lawn. Shortly after placing your order and (sometimes an hour after based on attendance) the most amazing brick oven pizza is delivered to you. YUM!!!

So here are few of the many reasons why we love this place.

1. EVERY ingredient is direct from the farm’s harvest and the pizza is made from scratch 100%.

2. It is naturally grown and local.

3. There’s nothing more fabulous then having pizza with great friends on a beautiful evening.

4. You do not need reservations.

5. Everyone is happy!

6. You can walk the fields and visit the animals. (Which makes it family friendly)

7. If you make a day of it, the drive along the Mississippi is lovely. Don’t miss the opportunity to pop into Red Wing’s Art Galleries. While en route to the farm, pick up a fresh berry pie in downtown Stockholm.

8. You can purchase fresh eggs, homemade bread and other harvest items to take home and enjoy.

9. It happens almost all year round so if you enjoy the frigid air, there is a hot pizza waiting for you.

10. This is quite possibly the most unique dining experience out there. People may not know what it is called, but they know what you’re talking about.

"Our State Fair is a Great State Fair..." September 2009

2010-01-25T12:52:00.009-06:00

Although some Minneapolitans would deny attending the Minnesota State Fair, we look forward to bringing you the latest update.

When attending, I always look for a mood, theme or pattern that carries through the Fair. This year there was a lot of detailed craft art with predominant patterns and colors of muted earth tones. Take a look and see if you agree.

Originally from Cleveland, 2009 was my fifth consecutive state fair. To my delight, I discovered the frozen-whipped ice cream mecca, aka. The Dairy Barn. Here you can see live butter carving demonstrations and the announcement of a young lady who is awarded the desirable title of Dairy Queen.

To complete the day, I also ran into Josh, Trish and little Finley. This first ‘someone-I-know encounter’ officially made the Cities my hometown.

Can hardly wait for 2011!

Retail Design Institute Supervalu Event- August 2009

2010-01-25T12:46:00.003-06:00

Supervalu hosted an impressive Retail Design Institute event at their Innovation Center. In conjunction with a delicious sampling of private label food and drink, attendees had the opportunity to participate in a highly classified tour of their private lab store; where retail science happens. The energy continued with an introduction of our full chapter board and newest chapter members were introduce. This night our chapter member roster increased 900%! The largest 2009 increase Institute wide.

Annual Boat Cruise on Lake Minnetonka - July 2009

2010-01-25T12:26:00.008-06:00

This year in particular the cruise was extremely enjoyable. We had perfect weather, good company and sailboats were everywhere. What really livened up the party was the change in command of the Captain. If you look closely you will see a blond. This is Nicole, a stellar designer and rendering extraordinaire. She convinced the crew that she was captain material and for one hour she manned the helm and brought us back to dock safe and sound. Is there anything she can’t do?

Best Buy and the Mall of America - June 2009

2009-06-22T16:33:00.001-05:00

Best Buy is the new sponsor of the Rotunda at Mall of America. Touchpoint Retail worked with Best Buy’s design group to developed a branded environment that highlights the Best Buy brand within the Rotunda space. Check it out next time you visit the Mall of America – (East Rotunda).

Wedding - May 2009

2009-06-22T16:32:00.000-05:00

Elisa wed Bill Richardson with an elegant ceremony at the St. Paul Como Conservatory followed by a celebration on the observation deck of Galtier Plaza in downtown St. Paul.

MSP Retail Design Institute Board Member Announcement - April 2009

2009-06-22T16:26:00.002-05:00

Minneapolis + St. Paul City Center of the Retail Design Institute established its Board of Directors. Josh is now the chapter vice president and Amanda the secretary. For more information, please visit the Institute at http://www.retaildesigninstitute.org/.

Retail Design Institute 3M Event- April 2009

2009-06-22T16:14:00.004-05:00

3M hosted the 3rd Retail Design Institute event in the Innovations Center at 3M World Headquarters. The highlights of this event included an interactive tour of the Innovation Center and hors d'oeuvres and drinks with a breathtaking view of the nature preserve. To top the evening; 2 thought provoking presentations were given. 3M specialist, Heather Tansey spoke about the 3M commitment to sustainability. On behalf of Orfield Labs, research consultant Thomas J. Smith, PH.D. shared a portion of his immense knowledge of kinesiology in a presentation titled Environmental Design: Bridging the Gap Between Designer Vision and Customer Preference.

http://www.retaildesigninstitute.org/

A Day in the Life of a Minneapolis + St. Paul Tourist - April 2009

2009-06-22T16:09:00.005-05:00

When living in a city, people sometimes forget about valuable resources and cultural activities.

Amanda took 3 days out of day-to-day life to explore the cities as a ‘tourist’.

Day 1: The Mall of America complete with roller coasters, aquariums and shopping. Was that a Best Buy I saw?

Day 2: A Wabasha Cave history tour and ghost hunting, followed by lunch at Psycho Susie’s Motor Lounge complete with local delicacies such as cheese curds and tater tots and a round of paint ball at Northside Sports Park.

Day 3: The following day, time was spent at the St. Paul Como Zoo and Conservatory, a walk along the mighty Mississippi and dinner at Lake Calhoun’s Tin Fish.

~ Stay tuned for more tourist updates.

Globalshop - March 2009

2009-06-22T16:07:00.007-05:00

Josh attended Global Shop to explore new and innovative retail products and networked with vendors and retail industry experts.

IRDC International Board of Directors Meeting - March 2009

2009-06-22T16:07:00.003-05:00

Josh attended the Retail Design Institute’s, International Board of Director’s meeting. Together with Sharon Lessard of Supervalu, he presented 2008’s activities of establishing a Minneapolis + St. Paul chapter. Minneapolis + St. Paul was elevated to City Center status.

We love Bundt Land!- February 2009

2009-06-22T15:55:00.008-05:00

Touchpoint sponsored a golf hole at the U.S. Bank Skyway Open with industry partners, Tanek and Excel fixtures. On the snowiest and windiest night of the year, we set up ‘Bundt Land’ in the IDS Center skyway. During the event many adults and kids poked, prodded and chuckled hysterically at the hole's feature, Bundt Mountain. To top of the event Mayor Rybak gave us a shout out during the volunteer & sponsor party hosted by the Hotel Minneapolis. Interface Floor & Signs of Perfection donated materials for our hole. All proceeds benefit the Boys and Girls Club.
http://www.skywayopen.org/

New York City - February 2009

2009-06-22T15:50:00.003-05:00

Amanda spent time in the retail capital of the world to catch up on new flagships, culture, trends and an elegant dinner at the National Arts Club on Gramercy Park.

Touchpoint Retail Makes the Cut

2009-01-22T17:08:00.006-06:00

January's issue of VMSD, titled "Buyers' Guide + Design Firm Resource Guide," has ranked Touchpoint Retail as design firm #41 on the top 50 retail design firm list.

Retail Design Institute - November 2008

2008-12-30T15:44:00.011-06:00

Together with Touchpoint Retail and Best Buy, the Minneapolis RDI chapter had its second meeting at Best Buy's Leadership Institute attracting approximately 100 people. The evening began with a networking hour and live jazz by 'Atlantis Quartet'. It followed with a fascinating and witty presentation by James Damian, Senior VP of the BBY Experience Development Group.

Josh Hanson also became the 10th Professional member which promoted the Minneapolis Chapter to a City Center status.

Goodnight Moon Photo-shoot - October 2008 - Minneapolis, Mn

2008-12-30T15:35:00.007-06:00

Together with Goodnight Moon owner Deborah Damian and Michael Haug photography, we captured the essense of the store environment while exchanging philosphical ideas regarding content of children's book such as the unrelated "Goodnight Moon" and "Baby's Life in the City."
Reference the project list for details and store photos.

International Retail Design Conference - October 2008 - Seattle, Washington

2008-12-30T15:31:00.006-06:00

Josh attended this year's International Retail Design Conference (IRDC). He sat in on numerous sessions presented by industry leaders and networked with colleagues.

Touchpoint's Newest Family Member - October 2008

2008-12-30T15:26:00.007-06:00

Principal, Josh Hanson and wife Trish welcomed Finley Wren Hanson into the world. Finley is their first born.

Minnesota State Fair - August 2008 - St. Paul, MN

2008-12-30T14:45:00.012-06:00

Every August people come far and wide for this all-time, American tradition. At this 12 day event you can find any delight or oddity from 'Best Udder in Show' and chocolate covered bacon on-a-stick, to touring a 2 story, Eco-House and receiving a L'Oreal makeover. As suspected, this year's fair turned out to be a huge success with 1,693,533 visitors. Touchpoint team members trekked over to catch up on people watching and curious inspiration. After stomach aches had settled; it is rumored that bacon brownie concoctions where tested and deemed fantastic in a team member's at-home laboratory.... we mean kitchen.

Retail Design Institute - August 2008

2008-12-30T14:43:00.005-06:00

The Retail Design Institute hosted its Minneapolis chapter kick-off event at Target Commercial Interiors. Amanda became the chapter's first associate member at the event.

Summer Nuptials - August 2008

2008-12-30T14:39:00.005-06:00

Amanda Davis, our Creative Director married Kirk Taylor on August 9th in Perry, Ohio.

Best Buy at the Mall of America - August 2008 - Bloomington, MN

2008-12-30T13:59:00.005-06:00

Best Buy opened its doors on August 8th at the Mall of America. In addition to their 45,000 square foot retail space on level 3E, Best Buy purchased branding rights to the Rotunda. The Rotunda at level 1E hosts weekly events. It is adjacent to Nickelodeon Universe and Touchpoint designed QVC store. In addition, Best Buy will open its first stand-alone Best Buy Mobile store in October 2008. Reference the project list for details and photos of the Mall of America location.

Global Medical Retail Conference - August 2008 - California

2008-12-30T13:55:00.005-06:00

Principal Ken Ashton-Piper attended the Global Medical Retail Conference in California. He met with numerous local and global hospital administrators to discuss the importance of the visitor experience and how retail can enhance a medical center visit.

Cleveland Institute of Art Spring Show - April 2008 - Cleveland, Ohio

2008-12-30T13:44:00.010-06:00

The Cleveland Institute of Art prepares designers and artists for a professional career in the the visual arts sector. The annual Spring Show, hosted by the Interior Design, Industrial Design and Communication Design departments, allows students to showcase their work. At the show companies, alumni and patrons are able to view the work and conduct interviews. Amanda, a CIA alumni, attended this years show. In result, Touchpoint employed interiors major, Ashley Duale for a summer 2008 internship.

Best Buy New Blue Prototype - February 2008 - Roseville, MN

2008-12-30T12:50:00.007-06:00

Best Buy reveals the 'New Blue Prototype' in Roseville, Minnesota. It incorporates the Habitats, Inspired Experience, and Musical Instruments concepts which we created with Best Buy's Experience Development Group. See the projects link for project details and photos.

Beijing, China - February 2008

2008-12-30T12:11:00.010-06:00

As the world anxiously awaits for the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics, Beijing locals participate in activities of there own. In Beijing's hippest neighborhood North of Tiananmen Square, Hou Hai Lake has frozen making for optimal ice skating and sledding conditions.

Germany's Retail Capital - Cologne - February 2008

2008-12-30T11:50:00.007-06:00

The city of Cologne has miles of multi-level retail spaces from national brands such as Globetrotter, Vodaphone, and Mango to small boutiques. After an afternoon of shopping and catching up on the history of the Kolner Dom, drop-in to one of the many authentic Brauhaus for local cuisine and Kolsch.

Euroshop - February 2008 - Dusseldorf, Germany

2008-12-30T11:14:00.016-06:00

Every 3 years Messe Dusseldorf hosts

Euroshop; the premier, international,

retail tradeshow event. Thousands of

vendors set up to display their new product

in the most innovate exhibit environments.

Nat, Josh, Elisa and Amanda attended the

event for the duration of the show.