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Rainforest Arts Center

Project Details

Size

6,300 SF

Client

City of Forks

Team

NAC Architecture
Hoch Construction Inc.

Recognition

2016 AIA Washington Civic Design Honorable Mention Award | 2016 IIDA Northern Pacific Chapter INstory Award

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Created a multi-functional community space for the City of Forks which features meeting and performance spaces, comfortable gathering areas and a small retail space.

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Honored Forks’ history as a timber and logging town. The building’s floor plan resembles a large circular saw and wood is central to the design, incorporated in sophisticated, contemporary ways.

Celebrated wood as a design element. Outside, exposed glulam beams and wood decking set the tone, while inside, heavy timber columns and beams create a strong structural framework and balance more delicate interior elements.

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Ensured that the RAC respected the community and supported the local economy by utilizing locally-sourced material, talent, and labor at every opportunity, as well as incorporating donated items like logging cant poles and large timbers.

Understood budgetary restrictions and reduced cost wherever possible. For example, the team opted for a conventional wood frame, which saved on cost, but didn’t sacrifice the modern feel of the structure.

Levereaged community enthusiasm and ensured that the RAC felt like a true extension of Forks by collaborating with local high school students during the installation of a custom mural. Made from crosscut wood blocks, the mural is a striking addition to the performance entrance.

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