Concept

 

Located centrally on the site, the visitor center is pushed up against a sloping creek side lined with dense vegitation.  The volumes on the left side of the main datum are in "compression" being literally pushed out over the cliff and enveloped by a dense canopy. The right side of the datum slides seamlessly out into an open field of native grasses and wildflowers. The orientation maximizes air flow, natural light, and circulation throughout the spaces.

 

Program

 

The center aims to orient the visitor to the history and culture of the land through a series of pavilions that contain artifacts, exhibits, and lectures. The center has a bike rental pavilion and allows event and lecture spaces to be used while others are traveling through the site. 

 

Experience

 

The volumes are composed mainly of earthly materials such as oak and rammed earth that when paired, contrast with the extensive standing seam metal roofs. Their angular and drastic shapes define them against the landscape as they reach out and wade into it. The porches throughout and the outdoor pavilions allow for a pleasant and comfortable atmosphere throughout the center. The large landmark terminates the major datum while tieing the center to the surrounding landscape.

 

Materiality + Tectonics

 

The volumes are oriented East to West to reduce solar heat gain, while their Southern exposure's stepping pattern captures the prevailing Summer breezes and the rammed earth on the North ends block out the Winter breezes. The structures utilize large roofs for rainwater harvesting, to provide shade in the Summer, and to allow photovoltaics to generate energy for the site. Crushed granite paths, metal roofs, and rammed earth walls make up the majority of the volumes keeping materials locally rooted and ecologically sound.

 

Land Heritage Institute | San Antonio, Texas | 2012

 

On display at AIA San Antonio Center for Architecture