The World’s Only Corn Palace is a one-of-a-kind civic landmark and a point of pride for the City of Mitchell. To explore how the facility could evolve while preserving its identity, the City partnered with Schemmer and Convergence on a comprehensive planning and feasibility study.

The team led a series of two-day, on-site stakeholder design charrettes that were intentionally open, collaborative, and iterative. This approach allowed community voices, operational needs, and technical considerations to shape the direction of the study from the very beginning. Using detailed scans and analysis of the existing building and site, the team developed a clear understanding of current conditions before exploring future options.

Initially focused on increasing seating capacity and adding a third practice court within the existing site, the study resulted in three refined concepts labeled “Good,” “Better,” and “Best.” Each option balances cost, functionality, and long-term value, with estimated budgets ranging from $15.5 million to $44 million as identified by the City of Mitchell.

All three concepts preserve the character of the original exterior and maintain the primary west-facing entrance along Main Street. The “Better” and “Best” options nearly double seating capacity while improving sightlines and overall spectator experience, accounting for modern seating standards. The “Best” option also introduces a secondary east entrance to better align with public parking and improve event circulation.

Across all concepts, the study prioritizes meaningful upgrades that enhance both operations and the fan experience. Proposed improvements include expanded team, coach, and referee spaces, increased concession capacity, and the addition of premium seating options such as box seats and loges. Flexible court and practice spaces were incorporated to support a wider range of uses while respecting the Corn Palace’s iconic role in the community.