Pigeon Key Research Center
Pigeon Key, Florida, USA
A Research Center on an island dedicated to the investigation of Coastal Ecosystems
SITE. Pigeon Key, a small island of approximately 5 acres, is the home of 8 Historic Buildings on the National Register of Historic Places (USA) . Formally the work camp for Henry Flagler’s railroad this site housed as many as 400 workers. The buildings incorporated unique construction features that allowed them to be dismantled and relocated. Currently the Pigeon Key Foundation conducts tours, educational programs and research endeavors.
WHAT. Pigeon Key Education Center conducts research on the interactions of coastal ecosystems, and the built environment as affected by climate change. The Center hosts researchers from around the world interested in research topics that parallel the mission of the Center. Investigations on the natural environment are carried forth directly thanks to the priveledged location of the project.
CONCEPT. A long bar collides perpendicular to the historic Seven Mile Bridge, housing the array of uses for the Center - including laboratories, classrooms, a library, a wet lab, and a fabrication lab. A grand staircase allows for an exciting transition between the high level of the bridge down to rooms within the building and ultimately the island beneath. All permanent programs are above grade, allowing the ocean to perform naturally.
