Architect chosen for proposed Theodore Roosevelt library

BISMARCK, N.D. – Organizers have chosen Norway- and New York-based architectural firm Snohetta to design the proposed Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library near Medora.

The library’s board of trustees considered three architects who presented design concepts last month. The board’s vote for Snohetta was unanimous.

Snohetta founding partner Craig Dykers told the Bismarck Tribune that the firm’s vision is to emphasize the area’s Badlands landscape.

Library CEO Ed O’Keefe said the three architectural finalists each was given a $50,000 honorarium for their work. He said Snohetta’s contract is “to be negotiated.”

The Legislature has authorized a $50 million operations endowment for the library, but $100 million in private donations would need to be raised first.

Gov. Doug Burgum has promoted the library as an anchor for North Dakota tourism and a tribute to Roosevelt, who ranched and hunted in the 1880s in the Medora area before becoming president.