Connecting Partners, People and Places

Mithūn Architects have created a conceptual framework for the new Nature Discovery Center to act as a portal to the refuge, navigating between the edge of the town of Jackson and the uninterrupted landscape of the elk refuge beyond. A solid south wing “bank” to the building forms a cohesive urban edge which visitors pass through to the transparent and porous north side. A large gathering roof frames programmatic “vessels” that house specific exhibitions and gathering spaces. The conceptual building form tips up and out towards the Refuge, creating wildlife viewing opportunities at different vantages, while a series of loop trails and site vessels through restored habitat allow a ground-level experiences of the ecosystem for visitors.