KYLE PALZER
AIA Minnesota 2022 Young Architects Award Recipient

Mending Mission Creek
Design Team: Michael Jones, MLA'16, Chris Lybeck, MLA '16 and Kyle Palzer, MArch '16
Fond Du Lac, Duluth, Minnesota
In response to the 2012 flooding of Mission Creek and the St. Louis River Estuary, Mending Mission Creek builds off of existing plans and past efforts to enhance and revitalize the landscape. This proposal provides a prime trout-fishing and bow-hunting destination within the city limits of Duluth, while catering to all outdoor enthusiasts.
Additionally, the design creates a unique retreat nestled within the pristine landscape of the Fond Du Lac neighborhood providing year-round recreational opportunities, improved land value, economic viability, and roughly 50 new jobs for Duluth.


Fond Du Lac Park & Mission Creek
Economic Benefits

Hunting Lodge Adjacent to Mission Creek
The Lodge at Mission Creek
Nestled between a hillside and Mission Creek, The Lodge at Mission Creek provides trout fishers, outdoor enthusiasts and hunters hospitality situated directly in the action of the natural environment.
This building is organized around a central lobby that acts as a hinge between the east and west portions of the lodge. The central portion also features kennels for hunting dogs, and a spa for relaxation after spending the day out in the elements.
The eastern half contains sleeping quarters that overlook the creek and an indoor archery range that celebrates the bedrock by being set within the hill. The western portion of the building seeks to overlook the creek in a way that acknowledges the sensitive ecosystem that exists for the trout habitat stream.
The western potion features a banquet hall and tavern to provide food and drink for those visiting and staying at the lodge. At ground level, game processing facilities are provided to allow hunters and fishers the opportunity to enjoy the fruits of their labor.

Building / Site Model
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Lodge Section, showing Light Access
Hillside / Underground Indoor Archery Range, Connected to the Lodge

Indoor/outdoor Hot Tub & Spa

Building Program

Debris Catch Bridge

Boulder Deflector Path

Bird Blind

Fond Du Lac Park Pavilion & Kayak Launch

Floating Boardwalk & Estuary Fishing Pier
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Level 4 | Rooftop
Level 3 | Lodging
Level 2 | Lodging & Tavern
Level 1 | Lodging, Lobby & Spa
Level B | Parking