prairie ridge eco station

location: Raleigh, NC
completion date: 2004
project team:
Frank Harmon
Sara Queen

problem statement

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences' Prairie Ridge Ecostation for Wildlife & Learning is the first part of a phased project, which began in early 2003. The diverse 38-acre site is a living classroom for school groups, educators, and learners of all ages to visit for a day trip or a unique overnight field trip. As an outreach program of the museum, the center fosters an appreciation for the state’s natural resources and natural diversity for all of its visitors, and represents sustainable architecture in its design and construction. Phase One is the Outdoor Classroom.

our design response

The Outdoor Classroom is built on a hillside, constructed with parallel strand lumber. Earth disturbance was kept to a minimum to avoid erosion. Concrete masonry units in the foundation are made of 100-percent recycled materials. Recycled untreated scrap lumber provides mulch for landscaping needs. The classroom’s heavy, south-facing overhang maximizes sun exposure in winter and creates shade in summer. Along with the screened walls, this orientation catches year-round southwesterly breezes. Even during the hottest summer months, the classroom remains pleasant and comfortable through completely natural ventilation. The building also features zero-percent runoff with recycled storm water: a cistern collects rainwater from the classroom’s roof for flushing toilets and minimizing the impact on local fresh water sources.