Being built for the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe, at the Dungeness River Nature Center in Sequim, WA, this classroom’s shape is evocative of a traditional round cedar “potlatch” hat, a nod to the rich heritage of the Coast Salish. The design is courtesy of Kirk Nelson, Jamestown S’Klallam senior construction manager. River Center director Powell Jones offered input on the design and Otak provided the final drawings.

The building will provide a space for 30 students that will accommodate and promote outdoor education. The classroom will be ADA accessible and features plumbing, electricity, a restroom, storage, and three roll-up doors that can be opened to offer the feel of an outdoor classroom with all the advantages of an indoor setting. When not in use, the building will be available to be leased by the public for private events.

This project is being funded by the “Floodplains for Design” grant and is part of the floodplain restoration project.

About Dungeness River Nature Center

The Dungeness River Nature Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that partners with Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe, Olympic Peninsula Audubon Society, and National Audubon Society. Their mission is to “inspire understanding, respect, and stewardship of our natural and cultural resources.”  The Nature Center offers nature and wildlife programs, family and youth camps, field trips, customized retreats, retreat center rentals, and more. See https://dungenessrivercenter.org/ for more details.