The design concept is a subtle yet powerful integration into the landscape. The green roof surface seeks to emphasize the site experience by engaging the diverse wildlife of the Valles Caldera and the visitor. To achieve these goals the proposal is a surface that extends from the landscape that doesn’t conform or reject the natural topography.
Scale Down. Because of the scale, engaging the expanse of the landscape is a difficult task. This proposal seeks to extend the landscape onto the roof of the building.
Intensify. The nature center becomes a living laboratory by offering opportunities to grasp the area’s ecosystem in an accessible setting, thus intensifying the experience of being present in the caldera. For example, a butterfly garden on the roof will attract the 63 different specfies known to Valles Caldera.
Inspire. Through interactive programs offered, such as a “hunting cave” and bird feeding area, the building seeks to inspire visitors to go out into the Caldera and experience the landscape.
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