The design for this environmental education center celebrates the native landscape of the Pioneer Valley and the strong connection between the Hitchcock Center and its natural context. The building and parking lot are situated on a sloping meadow with views to the Pelham Hills, creating several opportunities for gathering. The project was designed to meet net-zero energy and water goals and is intended to achieve Living Building Challenge certification. Throughout the design process, careful collaboration and integration with the Client was required to ensure that the built project would meet the requirements of Living Building Challenge (LBC) and the operational capacity of the non-profit organization. The result is a vibrant teaching landscape that integrates indoor and outdoor learning throughout the seasons.

Collaborators
designLAB architects

Photography
Ngoc Doan