Conservation Centre

Miami, USA

            Haulover Park is one of two public parks operated by Miami-Dade County. The intention is to design, construct and operate a

cutting-edge 21st century Environmental Education Center. The design is inspired by natural landscape in which creating a new integrated way to achieve harmony with the environment making it feel like an indoor oasis, allowing this design to serve as a new landmark to the masterplan of Haulover Park. The design consists of a façade that acts as a shell in which creates the exterior walls allowing natural ventilation into the building.

            The design is composed of two parts that can function together or separately. One part becomes the program that rises to two floors creating plenty of space for the program in which provides space and opportunities that encourage user-function interaction. The other part becomes an outdoor/indoor experience that is surrounded by nature and rises to a catwalk on the second floor which creates an inviting, natural light filled opening that is flexible and functional. The design would attract people of all ages to gather providing a relaxing and calming space to visit and walk around.

            The building would have water collection spaces that would add to the natural look of the interior which also provides the sound of water creating a soothing atmosphere enhancing the natural element. The exterior framing is constructed with timber louvers as they have a great eco credentials and are excellent solar shading components. It also reduces the amount of direct sunlight entering the building while still maintaining a natural light source. This would be supported by steel framing and cables as it has a high density. It also saves the amount of material being used allowing costs and labor to be reduced and it also simplifies the design of foundation and structural support. Steel also lasts longer as it does not split or crack as it ages. It also does not mold, warp or expand. However, a coating would have to be applied for both fire and water resistant.