World-famous nature preserve adds a dramatic visitor amenity
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DETAILS

LocationHouston, Texas, United States
ClientHouston Audubon Society
Size700 linear feet (elevated boardwalk)

Amidst the flats of the Gulf Coast lies High Island, a salt dome mound with a century-long legacy of oil extraction. Today, High Island has become an international haven for avian enthusiasts. Nature sanctuaries managed by the Houston Audubon Society (HAS) attract migratory birds, fostering a vibrant ecosystem where various species flourish.

In collaboration with HAS, SWA devised a comprehensive facilities master plan aimed at creating an unparalleled “destination experience” for the birdwatching community. At its core stands a breathtaking 700-foot-long Canopy Walk, a sinuous pathway weaving through the natural arboreal canopy. This feature guides visitors to man-made island overlooks, offering intimate glimpses of nesting egrets, spoonbills, and cormorants.

Throughout the design phase, the team maintained a commitment to habitat preservation and project longevity. The boardwalk minimizes disruption to the existing ecosystem, intricately threading through heritage oaks and towering trees while mimicking tree structures to blend in.

The redesigned pumphouse at the threshold of the boardwalk is now an open-air pavilion, welcoming guests and serving as a versatile venue for events. Resilient structural elements and durable materials ensure the project can withstand the harsh coastal environment.

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