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NDSU graduate presents a vision to repurpose Horaces grain elevators as a downtown anchor
Summary
Gracie Erickstead, a recent NDSU Master of Architecture graduate, presented an adaptive-reuse thesis for Horaces historic wooden grain elevators, proposing a mixed-use food hall, galleries and rooftop observation spaces to reinforce downtown identity and community gathering.
Gracie Erickstead, a recent Master of Architecture graduate from North Dakota State University, presented her master's thesis to the Horace City Council on May 27 proposing adaptive reuse of Horaces wooden grain elevators as a mixed-use downtown anchor.
Erickstead said local survey results showed more than 90% of respondents regularly leave Horace for dining and entertainment and more than 77% supported preserving or adaptively reusing the grain elevators. Drawing on regional precedents, she proposed a food hall, retail, community workspaces, galleries, and rooftop observation areas connected by a bridged circulation path that would preserve the structures historic silhouette while adding daylighting and public-program space.
Council members praised the presentation and asked questions about structural soundness and costs; Erickstead said the project is a design thesis and recommended engineering review and selective structural reinforcement (cross-laminated timber options were discussed). She also left boards and contact information for staff and councilors who want to follow up.
The presentation was framed as community design work rather than a formal development proposal; Erickstead invited further discussion with staff and community members.
