Grant County selected ALSC Architects to begin the conceptual process for a new multi-purpose events facility. The purpose of this initial Pre-Design phase is to clarify the vision, needs, and desires of Grant County and the associated stakeholders. The goal for the Grant County Event Center is to attract new events by addressing the need for an appropriately sized place of assembly to hold gatherings, celebrations, and events. The Grant County Event Center will embrace an exterior expression inspired by the agrarian surroundings and establish a magnetic presence on the hilltop at the approach to the fairgrounds. Flexibility will be achieved through an adaptable interior space, coupled with extending the program through connections to exterior zones.
The event center site has the advantage of being located atop a bluff with appealing views spanning west to south. Maintaining exterior exposure along the southwest portion of the site adds to the intrinsic value of the event center. Thus, views are considered by arranging the massing and orientation of the building towards this scenery in such a way that it is present in interior and exterior vantage points.
Simple program blocks arranged in a series of experiences create memorable encounters for the visitor. Agrarian roof shapes create a familiar feel and a civic scale in the assembly space. Light is balanced in the lobby and assembly space through clearstory windows and skylights.
The exterior space surrounding the building enhances the attributes of flexibility and increased occupancy by transforming into a complementary receiving area to spill out from the interior assembly space. It can also serve a purpose as its own individually programmed zone, separate from the interior. Harnessing the concept of multiple functions, the building and landscape offer multiple spaces of varying scale and environment while remaining connected and purposeful.
Guiding Principles
MAGNETIC- A unique building character to draw people in from across the region
RESOURCEFUL- Flexible and efficient to accommodate a variety of events
CONNECTED- Embrace views, reflect the community
SIMPLE ELEGANCE- Scaled to be comfortable, authentic, and intimate
CELEBRATORY- A memorable, energetic, and dynamic place to gather
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