Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center
A facility that connects people and nature by implementing sustainable design strategies that mimic natural processes
![Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center](https://www.bnim.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/97002_03_anita-b-gorman-conservation-discovery-center_id217.jpg)
Information
- Location Kansas City, Missouri
- Size 38,613 SF
- Completion 2002
- Services Architecture
- Project Type Community (private), Education Centers
Educators with the Missouri Department of Conservation imagined a place where children could connect with their environment and conservation services could be provided. The theme of discovery permeates the site, with the building mimicking natural processes to provide energy efficiently and handle its waste intelligently. A “Living Machine” provides on-site treatment of all wastewater and produces reclaimed water suitable for reuse in flushing toilets, recharging the outdoor wetland and irrigation. An early site inventory revealed opportunities to enhance remnant habitats by re-introducing native plantings, beginning a restoration of miniature biomes.
People
Team
- Laura Lesniewski
- Bob Berkebile
- Greg Sheldon
- Rebecca Shirley
- Anilkumar Panchal
- Ryan Warman
- Robert James
- Zachary Shubkagel
- Jenny Wang
Client
State of Missouri - Department of Conservation
![Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center](https://www.bnim.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/97002_03_anita-b-gorman-conservation-discovery-center_id207.jpg)
Awards
ASLA Central States
President’s Award
2009
DesignShare International
Award for Innovative Schools – Citation Award
2004
AIA COTE Kansas City
Excellence in Sustainable Design for Sustainable Landscape Honor Award
2004
![Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center](https://www.bnim.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/97002_03_anita-b-gorman-conservation-discovery-center_id214.jpg)
![Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center](https://www.bnim.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/97002_03_anita-b-gorman-conservation-discovery-center_id206.jpg)