BISON PAVILION

TYPE: LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

SITE: WINTERSET, IOWA

Project Description

The Bison Pavilion, located outside Winterset, Iowa, in the Holliwell River Valley, is a repurposed structure designed to serve as an observation shelter for a proposed Bison Paddock. The pavilion seamlessly blends with the surrounding landscape by reusing materials from a preexisting corn crib and barn on the site.

Situated above a prairie grass field where bison graze, the pavilion’s roof slope mirrors the hill’s natural grade, allowing it to harmonize with the land. Inside, visitors have two options: a corridor leading to the land or a series of shoots to the observation area. The pavilion’s façade, inspired by the corn crib’s design, promotes ventilation. This design ensured the preservation of corn and prevented mold formation.

The Bison Pavilion’s purpose goes beyond providing an observation experience. It aims to restore balance to the native ecosystem by advocating for the reintroduction of bison. Bison grazing behaviors benefit the land, allowing plants to grow back healthier, while their hooves aerate the soil and distribute seeds.

The project aims to raise awareness about the significance of these majestic animals in restoring the native ecosystem’s health and promoting sustainable land management practices. It serves as a reminder of the intricate interdependencies between wildlife, landscapes, and human communities and highlights the importance of preserving and coexisting with the natural world.

FOUNDATION INTERIOR SLATS INTERIOR DOORS

Material Culture

The barn and corn crib are utilitarian in nature. These structures are found everywhere throughout the Midwest. Although their construction is not unique, they bear the mark of the time. They carry a sense of tradition and a way of life. The structures bring the observer closer to the land and the community they feed. The materials used to construct the barn and corn crib were determined by Access, Affordability, and Durability.

Framing/Siding:

The wood used to build the barn and corn crib was sourced from Washington. The wood arrived by train to Winterset and was moved to site South East. Wood was a popular building material at the time of construction. Pine was most likely used because of its abundance and workability. The aesthetic of the material was optional while the structural soundness was the main focus.

Roof:

The roof of both structures are made up of galvanized steel. The steel most likely came from a steel mill transported by trains. Galvanized steel is used for most modern-day barns and corn cribs because of its lifespan and durability. Although the price was expensive up front, the roof would pay for itself by protecting countless crop yields. Underneath the steel roof are remnants of the previous shingle roof. Shingles were more desirable in some cases because they were waterproof and would sweat far less than steel roofs.

Concrete:

Concrete was commonly used for foundations. One of the desired qualities of concrete is its versatility for custom jobs. The farmer was most likely doing most of the labor. This included formWWing, mixing, placement, and finishing.