highlands center for natural historyPrescott, Arizona This is the state-of-the-art sustainable headquarters of a nonprofit environmental education organization that fosters connections between people and the natural world through hands-on, science-based programs. The site is located on an 80-acre Special Use Authorization parcel in the Prescott National Forest. We collaborated with Catalyst Architecture to build an environment equally nourishing to human education and wildlife habitat. We transformed the site into a premier example of rehabitation. Plants, animals, birds and insects native to the central Arizona highlands serve as the center's primary teachers. Our design encourages their vitality by minimizing impact to existing habitat and creating new. This included building placement of an amphitheater, restrooms and the James Learning Center, a 4,300-square-foot structure that incorporates LEED Gold building standards. Native-planted bioswales concentrate rainwater captured through catchment areas sculpted by a local metalwork artist. Schist found on site was used in custom rock hardscapes. Our parking layout minimized tree removal and the heat island effect. Trails link with the National Forest system and are accessible to those with disabilities. Drought-resistant, native plantings create living classrooms that are aesthetically beautiful and habitat-forming. |
 |
