St. Charles Duck Example

St. Louis, Missouri

The Design Process

  • 1: Analysis

    The planning process for the site, conducted in 2011 by SWT Design in conjunction with the Audubon Society of Missouri and the Army Corps of Engineers, involved four phases: data collection, program development, concept design, and final design.

  • 2: Existing Site

    The previous site was sparse, and the Audubon Society wanted to unite the Center with the surrounding landscape

  • 3: Previous Site

    The conservation area lies midway along the Mississippi Flyway near the confluence of the Mississippi, Missouri and Illinois rivers. However, the previous design denied the connection between River, Land and Wildlife.

  • 4: Plan Proposals and Collaboration with Audubon

    Through Renderings we helped the Audubon Society find the designs that spoke to them and their purpose

  • 5: Presentations and Refinements

    The best designs are collaborations. SWT Design and the Audubon Society worked together to find the designs that best spoke to the site and mission of the Riverland’s Center.

  • 6: The Master Plan

    The final site master plan is built upon and enhances the existing natural amenities and features of the site. It embodies the vision of the Missouri Audubon Society by helping draw visitors to the Center for a first hand experience of the birds, refuge area, and river.

  • 7: The site today

    The site today is not just an intersection of rivers, but a facility that respects the natural environment while providing opportunities for experiencing the refuge throughout the year.

From Concept to Implementation

“Every detail was thoughtfully executed. We're thrilled with the outcome.”

— Client at Riverlands Audubon Society

Today, the Audubon Center at the Riverlands has implemented the Master Plan, and serves 40,000 visitors, as well as 300+ Species of Birds.

Project Leadership & Relevant Experience

  • TED SPAID | PLA, FASLA

    Project Lead
    Ted brings nearly 40 years experience to SWT Design and the profession of landscape architecture. His vision is infused throughout the firm’s culture and philosophy of “LIVING DESIGN,” ever-challenging accepted standards and methodologies within the design industry.

  • WES HAID | PLA, AICP

    Project Manager / Senior Associate

    Wes has deep experience in Landscape architecture. In addition, as a hunter and conservationist, he understands the unique challenges and opportunities of designing for Sportmen and Birdwatchers alike.

  • Briana Coleman

    Project Manager/Associate

    Briana has long experience in bringing projects to life, and a deep love for ecology. She is passionate about the charismatic wildlife that rely upon the rivers to survive. Her passion is uniting diverse stakeholders.

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