The Grange Insurance Audubon Center was the first new building at the Whittier Metro Park. The 18,000 square foot building is designed to provide views to the surrounding landscape and river. A bird viewing area on the north side of the building allows visitors to enjoy the bird habitat.

The Architect stated, “This urban ecology center represents a catalyst for change connecting urban youth with their natural environment.  The acre parcel is viewed as “the center,” with some activity indoors and some outdoors.  Every aspect of this LEED Gold facility provides a learning opportunity in the environmental awareness, habitat restoration, conservation practices, and sustainable strategies.  Building massing, orientation, materials, and mechanical systems work in concert to create an interactive workshop environment celebrating the 5 R’s - reduce, reuse, recycle, restore, and revitalize.”

Awards:

• 2008 Sustainability Award – Un-built Category
• 2009 ABC Excellence in Construction–Eagle Award
• 2010 Dayton Builders Exchange Green Building Award Winner
• Finalist – 2009 James B. Recchie Design Award