Visitor Center showcases prairies’ rich natural and cultural heritage to attract new visitors.
Project Type
Visitor Center
Client
National Park Service
Construction Cost
$4,400,000
Square Feet
8,500 SF
KZF Design was the Architect of Record for this new visitor center and administration facility at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve in Cottonwood Falls, KS. Design/build services included architectural and interior design, civil, structural and mechanical engineering, and sustainable design. In addition, project coordination was required for the electrical contractor and the exhibit space contractor. KZF worked with the National Park Service to design the project with the goal of LEED® Gold certification.
The Visitor Center is a 3,000 SF building wing with an entry lobby with reception, exhibit space, a gift/bookstore, restrooms, offices and support spaces. The Administration Building is a 5,400 SF wing with a conference room, private and open office spaces arranged around an exterior courtyard and various support spaces. The building was designed for high energy efficiency and low water use. It is clad in native limestone and reclaimed barn wood. The entire single-story structure includes a vegetative roof system designed to grow and sustain native prairie tall grass.
