Energy efficient visitor centre to be designed

The Shenandoah River State Park Visitors centre in Bentonville, Virginia will be designed by Spectrum Design.

Spectrum Design has been selected for the design and engineering of the Shenandoah River State Park Visitors centre in Bentonville, Virginia.

The firm was chosen by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, managers of the award-winning Virginia State Park system.

The nearly 4,600-square-foot centre will be located off Route 340 in Warren County within the Raymond R "Andy" Guest Jr Shenandoah River State Park.

The eco-friendly, single-story centre will offer scenic views of the 1,600-acre state park, which overlooks Massanutten Mountain and Shenandoah National Park.

Serving as a gateway to the state park and area attractions, the centre will provide information on hiking and biking trails, campgrounds, and local events and festivals.

The multipurpose centre will include: * Conference room and offices for park officials * Exhibit hall, with an 800-square-foot glass viewing wall * Reception area and gift shop * 600-square-foot viewing deck overlooking the Shenandoah River * Several visitor amenities, such as bike racks, restrooms and showers "The centre will be an area where local residents and tourists can learn more about the region's natural history," said David Bandy, Spectrum Design principal and vice president.

"We're honoured to be tasked with creating a building that encourages people to explore the beauty of the Shenandoah Valley." The centre design will incorporate rough sawn timber, river cobble and themes from the valley's vernacular architecture.

Spectrum Design anticipates construction will be complete next year.

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