Wheeler Park Nature Center Final Review

Gisela Salas Velázquez

University of Oklahoma

Studio IV- Spring 2015

1st Iteration 2nd Iteration

3rd Iteration 4th Iteration

1st Concept Developments

Exhibition Building Plan

Office Building Plan

South Elevation

North View

Interior Rendering

Interior Rendering

Hand Render of view from Southeast

Study Model

Other Study Model Video

1/16th- in Scale Model

Wheeler Park Site Render

Description of Process

This concept came to be after research into the past of the site and visiting it multiple times along the last few weeks. When I first arrived I noticed a difference in visibility based on where one is standing. This became the first experience. As I progressed along the trail heading from the West to the East, I noticed a discomfort as the trees' numbers decreased. This discomfort that was felt was the cold. The trees at the site provide a sort of shelter, and as one walks away from the larger trees that cause the most shielding effect, the environment becomes more uncomfortable. The third experience had much to do with approaching the river. As a person walks from the parking lot toward the river, one begins to notice an earthy smell. Almost like when it is about to rain that you can smell it. Through these experiences the concepts developed. Some concepts did not work due to their lack of interaction, but one seems to be promising.

The inspiration for this project was drawn from experiences studied at the Wheeler Park in Oklahoma City, OK. After numerous iterations of the experiences and interactions with one another, the concept developed into a building with subterranean areas as well as above ground levels.

The design then took a turn going from four levels, to a simple two level building. This two level building brings the visitors from the trail found North of the Oklahoma River to an area where they can both learn about the park and experience it. Through the sketches and iterations found

below, you will see how the project developed and changed form multiple times from its very beginning. The goal is for the visitor to experience the park through the building as well as interact with it. On their way to the exhibition center, people can see the history that this park has had, including its purpose as the first location for a zoo in Oklahoma City.