The first-floor layout features a new reception area , gift shop , office space , conference room , and banquet hall with catering kitchen . The building ’ s lower level takes advantage of the site ’ s sloping topography , offering walkouts on two sides , patio areas , and direct access to trails . Lower-level interior space is intended for youth educational programming , which in 2020 has booked nearly 13,000 students from across the state .
Nature ’ s Classroom
Appleton Area School District ( AASD ) is one of several districts that uses the Lodge and surrounding land to reinforce science curriculum , build teamwork , and instill in students an appreciation for nature . AASD faculty and staff also participate in professional development and training opportunities hosted at the Lodge .
Judith Baseman , AASD superintendent , finds the “ seamless connection ” between this building and nature to be inspiring and is pleased to see not only the district but the entire community able to capitalize on a beautiful space .
“ We , as human beings , need the fresh air and sunshine ,” Baseman said . “ We need to appreciate the world around us , and the Preserve offers options to do that throughout all seasons of the year . It ’ s a resource for the whole community .”
Hands-on Approach
Mathew Frisbie , former vice president of architecture at Ayres , recalls the Ayres ’ design of Bubolz Nature Center as a
standout project . He remembers that communication was critical in order to design a building that effectively brings the outdoors in and to enable the Preserve to realize its vision despite challenges along the way .
“ Each client is unique ,” Frisbie said . “ In this case , they were up against several hurdles including budget restraints , energy conservation goals , and the client ’ s general unfamiliarity with the whole design-build process . We were hands-on with them all the way through .”
Ayres ’ Building Information Modeling ( BIM ) communicated the planned appearance and functionality of the Lodge before construction began . Designers used REVIT software to draw Interior and exterior 3D renderings and to create a www . AyresAssociates . com 5