Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library
The people, place, and President behind North Dakota’s historic landmark
Something Exceptional, Somewhere Unexpected: Building Where Theodore Roosevelt Dared to Dream
JLG Architects is proud to be the Architect-of-Record for the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, North Dakota. Working hand-in-hand with the internationally renowned architectural firm Snøhetta, the entire ownership, design, construction, and exhibit team has proudly created a presidential library which reflects of the impact that North Dakota had on the life and presidency of Theodore Roosevelt.
The architecture and landscape of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library
The architecture of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library is conceived as an immersive journey through the Badlands, shaped by Roosevelt’s deep connection to the landscape and his legacy of conservation. Rather than imposing itself on the terrain, the Library rises organically from the butte, its earthen roof echoing the surrounding landforms and offering expansive views toward the National Park and historic sites such as the Little Missouri River valley and the Elkhorn Ranch. The building’s design emphasizes openness and reflection, with large windows framing significant vistas and a rooftop that invites visitors to experience the sky, weather, and stars much as Roosevelt once did.
The project’s architectural vision is inseparable from its ecological ambition. Located on land historically altered by overgrazing and agricultural practices, the Library serves as a model for regeneration through initiatives such as the Native Plant Project, which restores biodiversity in partnership with environmental and academic experts. Fire and grazing – key forces in the region’s ecological history – are thoughtfully integrated into land management strategies, while the building itself is designed around principles of Zero Energy, Zero Water, Zero Emissions, and Zero Waste. Together, the architecture and landscape form a resilient, self-sustaining environment that honors Roosevelt’s legacy and looks ahead to the next century of stewardship.
Meet the team
The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library is being realized through the work of an accomplished design and construction team committed to thoughtful design and responsible building practices.
Ownership
Design
JLG Architects, Architect of Record
Snøhetta, Design and Landscape Architect
Confluence, Landscape Architect of Record
AE2S, Civil Engineer
Sherwood Design Engineers, Civil Engineer
Magnusson Klemencic Associates, Structural Engineer
Morrissey Engineering, Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Engineer
Arup, Audiovisual, Theater, and Acoustic Engineer
Ricca Design Studios, Foodservice Designer
Front, Enclosure Consultant
RES, Ecology Consultant
Atelier Ten, Sustainability Consultant
Construction
JE Dunn, Construction Manager at Risk
Exhibits
Future of Storytelling, Exhibit Story and Content Designer
Local Projects, Exhibit Designer
Dimensional Innovations, Primary Exhibit Fabricator
Electrosonic, Audiovisual Exhibit Design
Blue Rhino Studio, Exhibit Fabricator
Split Rock Studios, Exhibit Fabrication
Cortina Productions, Media Design and Production
Other
Branch Pattern, Commissioning Agent
Braun Intertec, Geotechnical Engineer
Heyer Engineering, Structural Engineer, Construction Administration Support
KLJ Engineering, Traffic Consultant
Materially Better, Sustainable Materials Researchers
RWDI, Climate Engineer
Studio Loutsis, Signage Designer
Summit, Code Consultant
In the news
The following selection highlights just a portion of the media coverage surrounding the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. From national features to regional spotlights, these pieces showcase the vision, impact, and ongoing excitement behind this inspirational destination.
The segment on Good Morning America highlighted how the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library is being designed as both a tribute to the 26th president’s larger‑than‑life legacy and a modern space for learning, conservation, and community. Set against the dramatic landscape of the North Dakota Badlands that Roosevelt loved, the project aims to immerse visitors in his passion for nature, public service, and bold leadership. The feature emphasized the library’s blend of interactive exhibits, outdoor experiences, and educational programs, all intended to show how Roosevelt’s ideas still shape the country today.
Nearly 140 years after Theodore Roosevelt marked his territory as American’s original conservationist, his bold legacy lives on to catalyze the future. Emerging from Roosevelt’s beloved Badlands in rural North Dakota, the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library (TRPL) is destined to extend T.R.’s vision into the next century of conservation focused on circularity of carbon. The project’s architectural team — international Design Architect and Design Landscape Architect Snøhetta, Architect-of-Record JLG Architects, Landscape Architect-of-Record Confluence, and Construction Manager JE Dunn — are preparing to make history.
Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library embraces North Dakota site’s isolated location
The library rises from the flat, grassy top of a butte across a highway from Theodore Roosevelt National Park, which had more than 732,000 visits last year. A path leads onto the library’s sloping roof planted with grasses and flowers. Inside, enormous rammed-earth walls of layered colors represent the dramatic Badlands.
Beyond native plant restoration, the Presidential Library is designed to surrender to its 90.3-acre surroundings, blending into the natural landscape of the prairie and inviting nature indoors. Snøhetta, Confluence, JE Dunn, and JLG have worked closely with the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation to prioritize native landscaping and structural sustainability, creating a sweeping Badlands design that emerges delicately from the prairie, camouflaged by turf.
This isn’t your typical library, and instead of getting shushed by librarians, you’ll be encouraged to participate in an epic journey. This is an opportunity to walk a mile in the audacious shoes of T.R. himself while enticing everyone to Dare Greatly, Think Boldly, Live Passionately, and Care Deeply.
Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Newsletter
Jennifer Burke Jackson leads the Community Practice Studio at JLG Architects, focusing on projects that elevate and inspire communities for the people of North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Minnesota, and beyond.
Get in the arena
The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library will open its doors on July 4, 2026 – America’s 250th birthday. Learn more on the official Library website.
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