The Larson Nature Center, nestled in the Brookings Dakota Nature Park, uses a heavy timber framing system and massive windows for a natural aesthetic that blends with the surrounding park, inside and out. The structure allows for year-round use with several amenities like a three-season room for small gatherings, a large exhibit space with a natural wood-burning fireplace, equipment rental storage, a large classroom, and restrooms. Through the use of organic materials, textures, and colors the project successfully emphasizes the calming effect of the natural environment and creates a central hub for the 160-acre park.
Project Goal #1
Create a rustic and organic structure which compliments the park setting
Project Goal #2
Create a central "hub" able to support activities at Dakota Nature Park
Project Goal #3
Brownfield Redevelopment
Project Features
- Double-sided natural wood-burning fireplace
- Stained concrete floors
- Geothermal mechanical system
- Exposed heavy timber framing
- Optimal solar orientation and daylighting
- Water efficient landscaping
- Sustainable storm water management
- Brownfield Redevelopment - Dakota Nature Park is located on the site of a former landfill
Services Provided
- Programming
- Conceptual Design
- Design Visualization Utilizing Building Information Modeling (BIM)
- Design Development
- Construction Documents
- Construction Administration