Bold by Nature: Behind the Design of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library

In this episode, we go behind the scenes of one of the most ambitious features of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library: the living, walkable earth roof. We explore how the roof was conceived to mirror the natural contours of the Badlands, discuss how it captures every drop of rainfall on-site, and reminisce on summers spent hand-collecting seeds to plant native prairie plugs on the roof. The conversation will reflect upon what it means to build something that, over time, will sequester more carbon than it took to create. This is a story about design meeting dirt.

Presidential libraries are typically found in major metropolitan areas, making the selection of Medora, ND—a town of just 160 residents—a truly unique choice. In this episode, we explore how Medora was chosen over Roosevelt’s home state of New York, highlighting the determined advocacy and vision of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation and North Dakota’s state leaders that made this monumental decision possible. Bold by Nature explores the remarkable collaboration behind the Library’s realization in an unexpected place: Medora, North Dakota. Hear from the passionate team at JLG Architects —founded in North Dakota—and their world-class partners as they share behind-the-scenes insights, challenges, and triumphs. Join the conversation as we uncover the pioneering spirit and bold civic vision defining this extraordinary destination.