‘Friends & Citizens’ is a summer-long design studio dedicated to combining the academic and professional world of architecture. Three SDSU design students, Tessa Klarenbeek (interior design), Alexandra Rausch (architecture / landscape architecture), and Becca Woytassek (architecture), designed a theoretical mixed-use multistory project located on the 300 Block of North Phillips Avenue in Downtown Sioux Falls. The 300 block is uniquely situated to make a dramatic impact, linking the developing ‘Uptown’ of Sioux Falls with the historic Downtown core. CO-OP Architecture oversaw the students, offering them the tools and guidance required to complete a comprehensive design project. Students collaborated with various entities, including the City of Sioux Falls.
The mission of ‘Friends & Citizens’ is to have professionals collaborate with students to develop design skills while participating in public policy discussions, developing smart land-use and urban planning strategies, considering sustainability, and most importantly; building vibrant communities. In short, the program wants to improve our neighborhoods and our world as Friends & Citizens.
