Paragon Prairie Tower: Iowa's Glass Mosaic Icon

The Paragon Prairie Tower, located in Urbandale, Iowa, stands as a vibrant tribute to the state's natural beauty and the Midwest's enduring spirit. Rising 120 feet, this architectural icon is adorned with a breathtaking 5,000-square-foot mosaic, meticulously crafted from 1.8 million pieces of Italian glass. The mosaic portrays a colorful panorama of the Iowa prairie, complete with wildflowers like coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, daisies, and clover, set amidst a sea of bluestem grass. The tower was designed by a team of artists from RDG Planning & Design, with David Dahlquist as the lead artist. The concept behind the tower is to represent the Midwestern work ethic of saving and harnessing our abundant natural resources. The glass mosaic was created in Ravenna, Italy, and then shipped to the site for installation. The tower also features lighting that illuminates the mosaic at night, creating a visual spectacle. Located at the entrance to Paragon Office Park, the tower serves as a cultural landmark for the State of Iowa. It's a place where people can gather and appreciate the beauty of art and nature. The surrounding area features bike trails, and the tower is accessible to the public. Informative plaques detail the tower's history and significance, enriching the visitor experience.