ALISSA BRETSCH
JLG Architects
SAY IT LOUD - SOUTH DAKOTA Exhibitor
South Dakota Based Designer
Who or what inspires you professionally?
I am inspired by community and people. The diversity of communities can bring challenges to design, but it's also what makes my career exciting and inspiring. I believe architecture can build a sense of community, bringing harmony and connection.
ALISSA BRETSCH
Bio:
As a lifetime resident of Sioux Falls, the great designer Alissa Bretsch brings deep community roots to her role as a Project Associate at JLG Architects. With extensive experience in community sports/recreation, civic, commercial, healthcare, and mixed-use residential projects, she is committed to enhancing architecture throughout South Dakota. Alissa's background includes seven years in the technology field, a Master of Architecture earned in 2021, and a B.S. in Graphic Design from South Dakota State University, Brookings, completed in 2012.
How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
My interest grew from painting class during my undergrad for Graphic Design at SDSU in 2007. There was no Architecture program, but buildings were studied for much of our work. Once SDSU's Architecture program opened, I earned my master's in 2018.
What do you do?
As part of our business development group, I maintain strong client relations while collaborating with design teams, coordinating design elements, and assisting in program and plan designs from schematic through construction documentation.
What excites you in the work you do?
When walking into a building or space, everyone experiences different emotions. It brings me joy to create spaces that make people happy, significantly impacting lives. I enjoy problem-solving to balance a client’s wants with functional needs.
Who or what inspires you professionally?
I am inspired by community and people. The diversity of communities can bring challenges to design, but it's also what makes my career exciting and inspiring. I believe architecture can build a sense of community, bringing harmony and connection.
What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
I'm really proud of myself for going back to school and earning a new degree while working part-time and being a full-time mother to two boys. Thinking about the hard work and dedication that it took is a reminder that I can do difficult things.
Featured Project Name:
Lincoln County Courthouse
Featured Project Location:
Canton, SD
Featured Project Completion Date:
TBD
Role in Featured Project:
Architectural Associate
Featured Project Description:
The new justice center will be the first of a multi-phase civic campus supporting the growth and development of Lincoln County and the City of Canton. Informing the design concept is the objective to tie the building to its place in time, recognizing the dignity and honor associated with courthouses. Housing six courtrooms, the State Attorney offices, court services, clerk of courts, and sheriff holding, the building allows the County to perform its civic duty and streamline judicial service.
