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Vesterheim Commons

The Vesterheim Commons is a new addition to the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School in Decorah, Iowa. The project plays an important role in collaboration with local community members and business partners in making Northeast Iowa a destination.

McGough played a pivotal role in this collaborative venture. Their Iowa-based team brought a wealth of experience to the project, resulting in exceptional outcomes for Vesterheim’s Commons building including an emphasis on utilizing local contractors from the Decorah area to be a part of the project. Local companies completed over 60% of the contract.

The stunning and honest architecture and natural materials honor the beauty of Decorah’s natural surroundings and have been created with a focus on sustainability.  The design was also driven by programming that inspires community engagement and experiences, and it emphasizes the building as a cultural gathering place. 

• 2024 Wood in Architecture Award Winner from the Wood Products Council
• The 2023 Excellence in Concrete Awards for Commercial/Industrial Decorative and Low-Rise Buildings from the American Concrete Institute, Iowa Chapter and Iowa Ready Mix Concrete Association (IRMCA)
• Top 10 Projects of 2023 from Think Wood

Project Details

Location
Decorah, IA
Size
7,600 SF
Status
Completed 2023
Delivery Method
CMAR
Architect
Snøhetta + BNIM

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