The Environmental Learning Centre creates an experiential environment blending natural, human and building ecologies.

The structure is raised above the threat of flooding from the river on its concrete pilotis.

A sequential study of skylight orientation and structural impact on quality and distribution optimizes the use of natural light.

Wood cladding is the dominant material on the walls, roof and soffit.

Entrance to the building.

The mixture of columns and tree trunks merge in such a way as to float the building into a hovering canopy.

Skylights provide spatial interest to internal spaces and include automated glazed vents for stack-effect natural ventilation.

The building provides a critical context for learning at the heart of a rural school campus near Vancouver, Canada.

A strong composition in its simplicity: a pencil-box tree house on stilts, among the trees.

Beneath the building becomes a “found” program space.

The classroom spaces hover above the forest floor and provide direct views of the forest canopy.

The carefully proportioned form is slotted between stands of mature conifers.

Holcim Awards Acknowledgement prize 2008 North America: (l-r) Craig Duffield, Larry McFarland and Ron Kato with Ray Cole (far right).

Holcim Awards Acknowledgement prize 2008 North America: (l-r) Craig Duffield, Ron Kato and Larry Duffield with Ray Cole (far right).

Gateway to the North Vancouver Outdoor School: a demonstration facility promoting lifelong environmental stewardship.

Micro-hydro, wind, solar and ground-source systems provide all the building’s energy, and become part of the school’s educational program.

A diverse biological landscape.

Master planning strategies.

Habitat: strategies.

Waterways: strategies.

Air, water and waste.

Construction methodology.

Main floor plan.

Ground level plan.

Holcim Awards Acknowledgement prize 2008 North America: (l-r) Craig Duffield, Larry McFarland, Ron Kato.