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Paragon Prairie Tower: A Mosaic Tribute to Iowa's Prairie

A stunning mosaic tower in Urbandale, Iowa, celebrating the beauty and heritage of the prairie with nearly 1.8 million glass tiles.

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The Paragon Prairie Tower in Urbandale, Iowa, is a 120-foot-tall architectural landmark and public art piece. Clad in nearly 1.8 million Italian glass mosaic tiles, the tower depicts a vibrant prairie scene, celebrating Iowa's natural heritage and the spirit of the Midwest.

A brief summary to Paragon Prairie Tower

  • Paragon Prairie Tower, 12150 Meredith Dr, Urbandale, Iowa, 50323, US
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Local tips

  • Visit the tower during different times of the day to see how the light interacts with the mosaic tiles, creating varying visual effects.
  • Take a walk around the base of the tower to read the informative plaques detailing the tower's history and the prairie landscape it depicts.
  • Bring a camera to capture the intricate details of the mosaic and the surrounding landscaping.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Paragon Prairie Tower is located at 12150 Meredith Drive in Urbandale. From I-35/80, take the 128th Street exit and head north. Turn east onto Meredith Drive. The tower will be visible on the north side of Meredith Drive as you approach the Paragon Office Park. Parking is available in the office park.

  • Walking

    If you are in the vicinity of the Paragon Office Park, the Paragon Prairie Tower is easily accessible by foot. Follow Meredith Drive towards 123rd Street. The tower is located at the entrance to the office park and is visible from the street.

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Discover more about Paragon Prairie Tower

The Paragon Prairie Tower, located at the entrance to Paragon Office Park in Urbandale, Iowa, stands as a vibrant tribute to the state's prairie heritage. Completed in 2007, this 120-foot-tall tower is covered in nearly 1.8 million Italian glass mosaic tiles, creating a stunning visual representation of the Iowa prairie landscape. The tower's design, conceived by a team of artists including David Dahlquist, showcases a colorful mosaic of native wildflowers such as coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, daisies, and clover amidst bluestem grass. The shimmering glass tiles, manufactured in Ravenna, Italy, capture the light and create a dynamic, ever-changing display that can be seen from afar. At night, the tower is illuminated, further enhancing its visual impact. More than just an aesthetic landmark, the Paragon Prairie Tower serves as a cultural icon for the state of Iowa. It represents the Midwestern work ethic and the importance of preserving the region's natural resources. Plaques at the base of the tower tell the story of the tower and the surrounding landscape, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of its significance. The area around the tower provides a serene atmosphere for leisurely strolls and contemplation.

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