KNC Camp

Lord Aeck Sargent, in collaboration with Byce & Associates and Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio, contributed to the redesign of the Kalamazoo Nature Center’s (KNC) Camp facilities, emphasizing the integration of sustainable design with educational purposes. The project involved the creation of several new structures including a gate house, entry drive, camp program center, open-air amphitheater, camp pavilions, and a variety of outdoor play elements like a treehouse and a zip line canopy tour. This design allowed for an immersive experience in nature while also utilizing sustainable design strategies such as rainwater harvesting for irrigation, vegetated roofing, and site-harvested materials. The new facilities enhance the KNC Camp's mission to connect children with nature through hands-on experiences, ensuring that the built environment supports environmental education in a setting that encourages both exploration and play. The rehabilitated structures, such as the Timber-Frame Barn, incorporate green design strategies like natural cross-ventilation and recycled materials, ensuring a minimal environmental footprint while offering durable, functional spaces for educational activities.