Rendering of new façade

The City of Minneapolis recently approved plans for the renovation of the existing Holy Land Deli and Grocery (2513 and 2517 Central Avenue NE) and it’s expansion into the former Sully’s Building (2519 Central Avenue NE). Madji Wadi, CEO of Holy Land Brand, purchased the former Sully’s Building not only because he saw an opportunity to expand but also to mitigate the negative impact the former Sully’s had on his business and the image of Central Avenue in general.

Designed by DJR Architecture, the renovation plans call for a larger grocery area, including an expanded ethnic food selection. A brand new hummus production area allows customers to see Holy Land’s famous hummus being made and packaged. “The visual connection to the hummus production area is intended to be somewhat theatrical”, explains Dean Dovolis with DJR Architecture, “but it is also designed as a safety mechanism, an effective way to provide eyes on the street.”

In addition to the interior improvements, the former Sully’s building will be re-used, preserving the traditional urban form of Central Avenue by the revitalization of an older dilapidated building. The façade of the existing Sully’s building will be modified so that it blends with the existing Holy Land Building next store and enhances the pedestrian character of the street. The project is scheduled for completion in Spring 2008.