Hennepin Made founders Jackson Schwartz and Joe Limpert have come a long way since launching their business making sustainable, glass-blown light fixtures. They started in a small northeast Minneapolis studio a decade ago and have since moved to much larger digs. They have a steady presence at Room & Board, and their distinct pieces brighten Twin Cities hot spots such as Spoon and Stable, Sidebar at Surdyk's and Owamni restaurants, Evereve stores and Life Time Works' co-working spaces.
And there are always a few irons in the fire. They recently renamed their headquarters, a sprawling, free-standing 30,000-square-feet building near the Minneapolis Farmers Market, Glass House.
"[Before we moved in], the space was previously a glass and window factory," Schwartz says. "This building has always been a glass manufacturer."
Earlier this year Hennepin Made rereleased Halo, its most popular collection. The line features modern-looking hanging pendants and globes that are made-to-order and feature a single-glass band that gives off a warm, ambient glow. Customers can choose from a selection of shapes, sizes and colors. Sconces are available, too, as are metal finishes and other custom details.
"We're just getting it more refined as you grow and gain more capabilities," Schwartz says.
Hennepin Made continues to operate as a small-scale manufacturer with glass produced on-site, and each sconce, pendant or chandelier blown and molded by hand by artisans.
"We wanted to maintain that high-level of craftsmanship. We wanted to find that sweet spot and stay an artisan manufacturer," Schwartz says, adding that the operation is essentially zero waste right down to blemished glass that will eventually be recycled, perhaps for a limited collection. They've also had solar panels installed to produce 30% of the building's energy.
In addition to the manufacturing side, the Glass House building also houses a showroom, pop-up cafe and event space. Schwartz and Limpert plan to open the showroom for regular hours soon (it had been open by appointment only) so homeowners and tradespeople can browse the light fixtures, vases and bowls. During the pandemic, Hennepin Made met a need that has only continued to grow.
