The Visitor Center
The Wisconsin Society of Architects recognized Riveredge’s Environmental Education and Visitor Center with the 1991 Design Honor Award.
Designed by the firm of Plunkett Keymar Reginato Architects (Currently Plunkett and Raysich Architects), the building echoes the farm style architecture of the existing farmhouse and 1890s barn. The core of the building is the octagonal visitor center, which reflects Ozaukee County’s unique “Clausling Barn” architecture. This large space houses the visitor reception/sales area and provides interpretive display area.
The two wings that are attached to the “octagon” provide classroom/laboratory facilities, office workspace and a library. The classrooms are used to complement the field activities of classes visiting the Center, and for more formal classes and meetings. The office area provides workspace for staff and volunteers. Also housed in the administration wing is the environmental reference library.
Landscaping plays an integral role of settling the building into its site. The landscaping utilizes plants native to Wisconsin prairies and maple forests.
Additional features limit the impact, or “footprint” the building has on the earth. Those features include a geothermal heating system, solar power, and our unique Engineered Wetland Wastewater Treatment System.
Together, the building and the site reflect the commitment of the Center to provide the finest of educational resources to fulfill our mission of education toward responsible earth stewardship.
Funding for the building came from individuals, foundations and businesses who are dedicated to Riveredge’s mission.