For this project, a series of strategic enhancements were designed to maximize the natural assets of the Lake Shelby Picnic Area in Gulf State Park. The first step was to completely rework the existing site plan, creating a more cohesive parking, pedestrian and biker circulation scheme which preserves all of the existing trees. A number of new amenities have been added including a restroom building with events deck and amphitheater seating, a dog park and pavilion, a natural playground and support for outdoor events such as food truck markets. The design also includes tailored facelifts to the existing structures.

Additionally, a number of other targeted projects were undertaken throughout the park to increase usability, connectivity, and wayfinding.

A gateway to Gulf State Park’s 6,150 acres, the Interpretive Center serves as one of the Park’s learning destinations. A combination of indoor exhibits and outdoor exhibits with interactive components teach visitors about dune ecosystems and our Gulf Coast environment. A large exhibit porch overlooks the primary, secondary and tertiary dune systems and serves as a refuge from the summer heat. The expansive orientation deck connects to a sand play area and to boardwalks reaching out into the Park encouraging the visitor to explore the rich ecosystems found throughout.
The project is a model of sustainability and resiliency on the Gulf Coast. The project is pursuing Living Building Challenge and LEED Platinum Certifications. The building is sited to account for storm surge, sea level rise and protection of the primary dune line setback. Building orientation, regional, renewable materials, and environmental technologies contribute deeply to the project’s resiliency.

AWARDS

AIA Birmingham Design Awards, Honor Award, 2023

PRESS

Kendeda Fund Website, “Living Building project caps Gulf State Park sustainable makeover” 2018

A hub for park visitors, K-12 students, rotating researchers, and park staff, the Gulf State Park Learning Campus rounds out the park’s offerings through its classrooms, laboratories, flexible meeting spaces and lodging options. Built on a previously developed area in an evergreen forest, the Campus demonstrates sustainable building practices and cultivates stewardship through interactive environmental programming. Site design of the Campus encourages visitors to park the car and use a pedestrian core, creating various experiences amid native longleaf pines and live oaks. The Student Lodge, equipped with 64 bunk beds and 2 private rooms, and a Community Restaurant are a short walk-in-the-woods away from Classrooms and a 200-seat Auditorium, the Park’s primary learning destinations for exhibits and formal research. Connected by boardwalks and characterized by screened porches nestled under the trees, the classrooms provide learning opportunities everywhere.