Hi and welcome back to Décorieure! I’m super excited to do this post since is about a topic I feel identified with. I discovered it from the Top 100 Projects of ArchDaily in the US. The project developed sustainable technologies and solved some issues that concern all of us.
Not too many people know about this, but some years ago I was a scout. I had an amazing time and I learned lots. Furthermore, I have always been concerned about the environment, especially about water conservation.
The project is the Sustainable Treehouse by Mithun; located in the Summit Betchel Reserve, West Virginia. The project was designed for the 24th World Scout Jamboree to be held in 2019. A 3357 square feet treehouse with educational and gathering spaces focused on environment conservation.
- Mithun: Design Architect.
- BNIM: Architect Record.
- Nelson Byrd Wolts: Landscaping.
- Tipping Mar: Structural Engineering.
- Exhibit Design: Volume, Inc and Studio Terpeluk.
This interactive building is located in the middle of a reserve. A harmless green construction made for educational purposes, where visitors learn about energy, water conservation and the environment.
The American Institute of Architects
This green building has different sustainable systems:
- 6450 watt photovoltaic panels
- two 4000 watt wind turbines
Energy flows create renewable energy resources.
- 1000 gallon cistern
Composting toilet with no water required.
- Water cleansing system
The building only uses rainwater. This one is collected, filtered, treated and distributed to the lavatories, water fountains and mop sink.
The treehouse was constructed to minimize the structure impact in the environment; made from a mix of site-build wood and a prefabricated structure.
Additionnal details that can be found in the Sustainability Treehouse:
The staircases teach about energy use and impact in daily activites.
Water cycle and conservation with the “Tippy cup rain chain“.
Educational placards about the fauna and flora in the reserve.
Viewing rooms, even when you are in a close room you can still feel surrounded by the nature.
Indoor and outdoor galleries to optimize natural light.
Thank you for reading; I hope you’ve liked this beautiful project. If you get to go to this Jamboree, or you get to visit this place let us know about your experience.
Décorieure 