Over the next several months, Blueprint South Dakota will spotlight each of the entries in the 2025 Design Awards competition. AIA South Dakota members again proved their creativity and problem-solving skills with beautifully functional work, on display in communities across South Dakota and beyond.Each installment in this series introduces readers to a different project, in the design team’s own words. As part of every entry form, AIA SD asked submitters to provide a “long description” that addressed the design intent and its progression. We invited submitters to go beyond the stats to show the value the project added for their client or community. In turn, they detailed the problems the project solved, told how their process made the most of hidden opportunities, and described the ways the design supports the client or community through form and function.
100 S. Grange
The basics
Firm: Koch Hazard Architects
Client: Alex Halbach
Category: Small Project
Location: Sioux Falls, S.D.
The story
This project transformed a formerly declining building into a mixed-use commercial property. The process began with a successful petition to rezone the lot from residential to commercial use. The building’s 1960s-era stucco was removed, revealing original brickwork that was repaired or replaced as needed. New commercial windows and doors were installed within the original masonry openings.
This project transformed a neglected 100-year old structure into a vibrant mixed-use building that is catalyzing redevelopment in the surrounding historic, residential neighborhood. Designed by Koch Hazard Architects for Alex Halbach. Photo credit: Koch Hazard Architects.
The structure was evaluated and reinforced where necessary. Inside, the layout was reconfigured to accommodate a bistro and commercial kitchen on the ground floor, with a law office above. Mechanical systems were upgraded to support the kitchen’s requirements.
Site improvements included curb modifications along Grange Avenue to allow for angled parking and the installation of a privacy fence to buffer neighboring properties. The exterior space was reimagined as a seasonal gathering area. It features a pergola-covered dining space, a new outbuilding with restrooms, and a summer-use beer and coffee bar. There’s also open space for yard games and informal socializing.
The result is a restored and reactivated property that supports both commercial activity and community engagement.
This view of 100 S. Grange shows the patio for Perch Bistro. Designed by Koch Hazard Architects for Alex Halbach. Photo credit: Koch Hazard Architects.
More projects in the series
Click to view a video of all 22 entries in the 2025 AIA South Dakota Design Awards.
Author: AIA South Dakota
AIA South Dakota is the professional non-profit membership association of architects, future architects, and partners in the building and design industries, and the state chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) AIA South Dakota advances the mission that design matters in every South Dakota community.
