### Project Overview
The Observation Tower is located in the northwest region of De Smet, South Dakota, near the intersection of Lyle Avenue and local roadways. This structure aims to enhance visitors' experiences of the natural environment by providing a dedicated vantage point for observation. The design prioritizes functionality and inclusivity, allowing all users to access and appreciate the surrounding landscape.

### Structural and Material Considerations
The tower's form, characterized by a series of triangular modules, creates a visually striking silhouette while maximizing structural integrity. The interplay of materials is critical to the design's character:
- **Steel** serves as the primary structural component, ensuring durability while maintaining a lightweight appearance.
- **Engineered wood** elements are incorporated into flooring and certain structural aspects, adding warmth and a tactile quality to the interior spaces.
- **Glass** features in the railings and stair components, providing transparency that enhances views for visitors while ensuring safety.
- **Steel mesh** is utilized for various surfaces, promoting airflow and visual connectivity with the environment.

### Accessibility and User Experience
Accessibility is a central theme in the design, featuring an elevator alongside stair access to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. The tower includes multiple observation decks, each extending outward to offer panoramic views of the landscape and act as resting points for visitors. The surrounding landscaping, consisting of tall grasses and patches of trees, complements the architectural intent and fosters a sense of continuity between the structure and its natural setting.