The Nature Place
La Crosse, WI
Completion
2009
Type
Civic
The stone wall in the lobby of the Nature Place — formerly Myrick Hixon Eco Park — is a tangible representation of the building’s sustainability mission.
The west wall in the lobby and atrium proudly displays stones, which are products of volunteers’ sweat as they chipped old mortar off the large stones, salvaged from an old local building.
Incorporating natural materials, like the stone, was important as the building is a state-of-the-art nature center and serves as the orientation hub for the entire ecosystem experience. Great care was taken in choosing environmentally-friendly materials and finishes. As a result, stained wheat board and polished concrete are among the sustainable products found in the facility.
Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy year-round environmental education within the Discovery Room, a nature education classroom, and trail access to Hixon Forest while others enjoy the gorgeous La Crosse River Marsh view from the 114 towering windows in the atrium.
A multipurpose space adjacent to the atrium, with serving kitchen, provides an opportunity for the community and staff to utilize the building for educational and private functions. Other features include staff offices, a meeting room, exhibit areas, and local artwork on many of the walls, including the entry way.
