The Overlook was only the first step in a varied series of projects at the KU Ecological Reserves, all intended to draw the public to this beautiful site and educate the public on the many benefits of the native prairie. In 1957, KU began a long-term prairie experiment on the 160 acres of former farmland that continues to this day, testing four methods of management: use of burning, grazing, mowing and no treatment. along with research and teaching programs.
While native prairie like this was once prevalent across the midwest, it has become exceedingly rare as farmland and development spread. The client’s goal with this project was to create an evocative space for sharing this natural beauty with the public, educating them on its myriad environmental and ecological benefits.