This Nature Education Center is located in a single reserve of Europe: The Oostvaardersplassen in Almere, Netherlands. The building is constructed in crossing various landscapes of earth, water, forests and cane fields. To accommodate large crowds is inserted information room, classrooms, panoramic room, dining room and a representative meetings: The new icon of Almere-Buiten.
The building is presented in two ways: from the parking lot is perceived in a way that is striking and inviting, like a vertical light that comes from the plain. On the other hand, from the lake, collecting a horizontal which is related to the dam and the water surface.
In the first level, panoramic room with a large horizontal window, Gives a great view over the lake. Access to the building is located at the foot of the dam. Since the entry of visitors climb the ladder to the tower, an outdoor space to observe the environment. This upward movement is highlighted with a continuous line of sight connecting the access to the tower.
In order to minimize intervention in the natural environment, we tried minimize construction time. For this, the building is constructed from LenoTec prefabricated panels, Solid wood for walls and slabs, made in Finland. The use of these prefabricated makes possible the realization of a cantilevered projection of 8 m on the lake. Furthermore, the Wood is a great lightweight thermal insulation. The natural expression of this material remains visible on the inside, like a log cabin.
The facades also constructed prefabricated panels of pine generating different textures and patterns. The holes in the facade vary in their addresses and sizes framing the views of different ways, allowing visitors learn to observe the environment.
