Wakamatsu Farms

On the site of the first Japanese colony in the US and the birthplace of the first Japanese American, this outdoor learning center is a critical connector of the historic past and an example of sensitive development for the future. This pavilion facilitates education programs for volunteer training, elementary school field trips, and public groups. It was designed to integrate with and accessed through the existing garden and farm and master-planned to be zero net energy and include a rainwater harvesting system and water efficient restrooms. The aesthetic draws from the site’s historic past and current working-farm needs with modern, durable, and low-maintenance materials that also reduce wildfire exposure. Operable barn doors at the entry and corners provide a securable facility while keeping a very open and accessible outdoor pavilion feel.