Russell & Helen Means Observation Tower at Kill Creek Park

Kill Creek Park is an 897-acre woodland featuring picnic shelters, swimming beach and marina, in addition to miles of walking, running and cycling trails. Located near the park’s entrance is a 58-foot observation tower sited on an alley of trees donated by Russell and Helen Means with distant views of undisturbed prairie.

The building’s form is the familiar proportion of a grain silo. The tower cants slightly, evoking a metaphorical image of smoke rising in the wind from the annual spring burn of the prairie, suggesting new life and the cycle of seasons.

The galvanized bar-grate skin mimics the ever-changing perception through the filtered view of tall Kansas prairie grass.

A series of framed views at each landing builds wonder as the visitor ascends to each level. Northwestern views frame water tower landmarks. An intermediate landing frames a picturesque view of the park’s ponds. Easterly views align with the axis of trees. A ribbon of weathered steel guardrail guides the journey around the precast elevator core.

The building is minimally conditioned and lit to reduce impact on the surrounding environment. Mechanical and electrical rooms are tempered to minimal operating temperatures. Lighting is limited to low foot candles to reduce glare and energy consumption.

Designed to be universally accessible, the tower features an Americans with Disabilities Act compliant elevator.

The Russell and Helen Means Observation Tower was completed as part of SFS's on-call architectural services contract with the Johnson County Park and Recreation District.