Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center

Itasca State Park, Clearwater County, Minnesota

The building and site design is derived from the mission of Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

The Center design reflects the rich legacy of CCC era rustic architecture found in the park. The majority of exhibits are under exterior shelters creating an interpretive environment. The interior area is 6,150 sqaure feet and includes space for gift sales, restaurant, toilets and support. Exterior sheltered exhibit area is 2,560 square feet, and exterior sheltered eating area is approximately 768 square feet.The building and site incorporates many sustainable design strategies including a rain garden, day lighting, natural ventilation, native vegetation, recycled and renewable materials, and FSC-certified wood.