Experience the Galveston Transect

Galveston Bay is one of the most ecologically diverse regions in North America, and an invaluable well of resources for the United States. After researching the entire Texas Gulf Coast through the lens of conservation, and establishing a hypothetical Gulf Coast Conservation Trail, this project aims to establish a trail orientation center on Galveston Island that educates and informs on the importance of coastal edge conservation. It became apparent that bay, wetland, and upland ecology have an intimately symbiotic relationship, and to educate well on their conservation the entire transect must be considered. These interwoven systems are introduced to visitors in a way that emphasizes the nature of the transect through the use of light quality, views, and procession. The Galveston Orientation Center is situated bay-side in Caranahua Cove in Galveston Island State Park, and floats on an industrial barge to allow it to be moved to safety in powerful storm situations. Large wooden louvers ripple as if the prevailing south-eastern breeze is touching the facade. As a visitor approaches on a boardwalk, they wind their way through constructed wetlands as a preparatory experience before entering the center. The bottom half of the front facade is frosted to conceal the program beyond, and native Texas plant names are listed in this frosted screen as a way of emphasizing the diversity of Texas' northern coast. Upon entry, the building ushers visitors up a series of terraces that educates on Galveston's most prominent transect features; bay ecology, oyster reefs, sea grasses, wetlands, and uplands. As the terraces graduate upwards, it follows the sectional and ecological changes of the Galveston transect, and offers interactive tanks where children and adults can learn how to plant sea grasses, build oyster reefs, etc. As this change in elevation occurs, one finds themselves at the tallest part of the section where the back of the building opens up to a panoramic view of Galveston's beautiful West Bay, asking visitors to reflect on the importance of conserving such a biologically unique area, and the implications if this is not done. An observation deck for bird-watching and an amphitheater offer more educational and recreational opportunities for guests. Support program (offices, restrooms, and a bookstore) are tucked underneath the high program almost as a wedge, allowing for a grand, uninterrupted processional experience for the visitor.