Annie Louise Wilkerson Park Office and Nature Education Center

Overview


HH Architecture completed a study for the 155-acre site donated by esteemed Raleigh obstetrician, Dr. Annie Louise Wilkerson. Our evaluations were provided for code compliance and future upgrades to transform the site into a nature preserve and LEED Silver educational facility.

PHASE I: Working within the parameters of the site master plan developed by CLH Design, we created a vision for an educational experience that integrates the natural environment. An existing residence was reimagined to serve as the Park Office that includes a new roof structure to enhance the natural light, display spaces for exhibits, informal classrooms for educational programs, a large picnic shelter, and a comfort station.


PHASE II: Dr. Wilkerson’s former residence was transformed into the ALW Nature Education Center, a visitor center featuring spaces for exhibits and classrooms. Materials evoking nature were used to reflect the surrounding environment with sustainable design features including low-emitting, recycled, regional, and renewable materials, clerestory and large windows facing south, and bird deterrent exterior glazing.

Size

12,020 SF

Year

Study: 2007

Phase I: 2012

Phase II: 2019

Internal Team

  • Kristen M. Hess
  • David Carey

Project Team

CLH Design

EnTech Engineering

Lysaght & Associates

Matrix Health & Safety Consultants