DuPont Environmental Education Center

Elevated above the marshlands, the new DuPont Environmental Education Center at the Russell W. Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge responds to the dynamics of the surrounding natural systems—tidal river and wetlands—as well as infrastructural site elements: an adjacent railway, high voltage power lines, and multiple utility rights of way.

Suggestive of the nearby working railroad bridge and the industry that dominates adjacent sites, the detailing of the bridge and building are juxtaposed with the framed view of the refuge that greets visitors as they approach, highlighting the tenuous connection between man and nature.  

Entering on the third level, visitors explore an interactive exhibit area while surrounded by views to the City and natural setting that are the subject of the interpretation. Cantilevered covered decks extend the experience outdoors and offer vast panoramic views across the wetlands. The lower level classroom becomes an indoor laboratory for examination of specimens collected on site.