Estrella Mountain Regional Park

MARICOPA COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT VISITOR CENTER PROTOTYPE

CLIENT: MARICOPA COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT

LOCATION: ESTRELLA REGIONAL PARK

SIZE: 4,000 SF

Maricopa County Parks are primarily pristine desert landscapes, offering visitors an experience reminiscent of what early pioneers encountered when they first arrived in the territory that would become Arizona. These parks are incredibly diverse in their settings, terrain, flora, fauna, wildlife, and unparalleled natural beauty. We consider it our duty to minimize any disturbance to the natural landscape. These parks are our treasure, and we want future generations to enjoy them just as we do today.

As part of our commitment to sustainability, we developed a LEED-accredited building prototype to serve as a visitor center at multiple Maricopa County Parks locations. Our goals were to minimize disruption to the untouched landscape, ensure the design harmonizes with its surroundings, and set a standard for sustainable educational facilities within the parks. The building is designed as a "path" to welcome visitors into the park. Every aspect was carefully planned, from site selection to the choice of fixtures and furniture. Sites were strategically chosen to avoid disturbing undeveloped land, preserve wildlife corridors, and protect native plants.