The Maricopa County Parks Visitor Center Prototype was developed to support public access and education while protecting the unique desert landscapes of Arizona. These parks are incredibly diverse in their terrain, vegetation, wildlife, and natural settings, offering visitors a chance to experience the land much as it existed generations ago. With that in mind, we approached the design with care to reduce environmental impact and respect the surrounding ecology.

As part of the County’s sustainability goals, we created a LEED-accredited prototype to be used at multiple park sites. The building is designed as a “path” into the park, guiding visitors into the landscape without dominating it. Every element, from site selection to furniture choices, was made with long-term environmental stewardship in mind.

Sites were strategically chosen to avoid disturbing undeveloped land, preserve wildlife corridors, and protect native plants. The result is a practical, durable visitor center that supports park operations, enhances the visitor experience, and fits quietly into its setting.