Interpretative Pavilion at dawn.
View of the Interpretative Pavilion and pedestrian bridge looking east.
At 85,000 acres, the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve is Florida’s largest and least developed park. The park is made up of diverse, yet interconnected ecosystems including Bald Cypress Swamps, Marl Prairies, Cypress Domes, Hardwood Hammocks, and Salt Marshes.
Our enhancements to the State Park include Interpretive Pavilion, Suspended Pedestrian Bridge, and boardwalk through the prairie grasses.
Our enhancements to the State Park include Interpretive Pavilion, Suspended Pedestrian Bridge, and boardwalk through the prairie grasses.
Rolled steel bridge over canal with Interpretive Pavilion in the distance.
Our guiding principle of minimal
impact on this pristine landscape is
manifested not only building
placement and material selection
but also by use of clean energy. The pavilion is off-grid and relies on a photovoltaic array for electrical power.
Interpretive Pavilion with rooftop solar panel array.
Metal boardwalk meandering through prairie grass.
Detail view of pedestrian bridge.
View of structure of pavilion roof highlighting the 100% recycled steel.
Where possible we eliminate mass, using columns instead of walls. Materials such as steel are used instead of concrete. The pedestrian bridge walking surface is open bar grate that allows sunlight to pass through, allowing plant life below to continue to grow. Gurard rails use stainless steel mesh to withstand the harsh conditions and allow unimpeded views to the prairie.
Rolled steel bridge over canal.
Sun rising over the marl prairie.
Precast concrete panels and beams are used only at the floor of the interpretive pavilion as protective strategies against
naturally occurring fires in the area. All structures are supported by helical pilings driven by small machines causing little damage to the site.
Design Award
Honor Award for Unbuilt Design Excellence – 2016
“This is a very important project in an extremely fragile environment, yet the project is innovative, educational and light on the land. The variety of experiences will make it informative, educational and fun to visit. Walkways have an interesting structure that will almost disappear into the natural environment.” – Jury Comment
The raised pavilion allows the public access to this unique and remote ecosystem where it was not available before.
Gallery
