Zand Education Center
The Zand Education Center at the Dawes Arboretum
The Dawes Arboretum was looking to expand their education programs at the existing Zand Education Center in Heath, Ohio. kla studios was commissioned to prepare a master plan for the Zand area, and ultimately design an expansion that would more than double their current capacities. Check out the Dawes website here.
Older facilities adjacent to the Zand building were demolished to make room for the expansion and new garden. The nearby pond and existing topography offered opportunities to accommodate fantastic views to the historic Dawes Home, the pond, and to the prairies to the north.
The design manipulated the grade to help define program differences in multiple spaces while allowing accessibility throughout. Trellis systems also reinforce spatial delineation as well as providing shade and opportunities for seating including swings that allow users to sit and relax while enjoying the landscape, the wildlife and the sounds of the pond fountain.
The spaces include a large patio area and gardens that help make this space a perfect social venue for public and private events, display space for specimen eco-types, display space for individual species, hands on planter boxes for education classes, maintenance and storage spaces, pond side dock and mini-amphitheater, and additional covered space for rain days.
The swinging benches were sold out within days of being available, they are a favorite spot enjoy the view…
