This project consisted of the construction of a state-of-the-art interpretive center to provide educational services, to serve as a gateway to the greater Sully Woodlands and core facilities, and to allow the space to be rented to the public. The building includes demonstration mechanical and electric rooms, an education kiosk, kitchen, public toilets, and two multipurpose spaces: one enclosed (1,400-SF) and one open (800-SF). To align with the sustainable mission and goals of the Park Authority, the project was designed to meet the rigorous sustainable design standards of the Living Building Challenge (LBC) “Full Living Certified”. The structure, design, systems, materials, and operations of the center itself will be used to teach the principles of stewardship for resources and healthy choices in use of water, energy, site use, and building methods. There are only a handful of buildings constructed like this throughout the country.

Location: Fairfax, Virginia 

Client: Fairfax County Park Authority

Architect: Quinn Evans Architects