Dakota Prairie elementary
Project Overview
Prairie-inspired education design
Situated on the southern outskirts of Brookings, Dakota Prairie Elementary stands firmly on repurposed agricultural land. Its strategic location and imposing architectural presence make it a key element in the city’s future planning. The conceptual design was a collaborative effort between our firm, Cannon Moss Brygger Architects of Sioux City, and active participation from school district members and instructors. This diverse team ensured the building met all necessary standards while incorporating desired features.


The architectural layout of Dakota Prairie Elementary is characterized by separate pods connected by expansive outdoor classroom spaces. Native prairie grasses, undulating hills, and shelter belt trees accentuate the campus, giving it its namesake, Dakota Prairie. The deliberate irregularity of the building’s footprint invites innovative approaches to landscaping, fostering a creative and environmentally integrated atmosphere. This design reflects the communityโs forward-thinking approach to education and sustainability.
Project Information
Type
Education
Services
Architecture
Size
95,000 sq. ft.
Project manager
Les Rowland
Civil
Civil Design, Inc.
Structural
N/A
Mechanical
N/A
Construction
Van Buskirk Companies
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