Bird Sanctuary Marvel: Riverlands Avian Observatory at Washington University

The Riverlands Avian Observatory, a remarkable project created by the Cobalt Office architectural studio, has been unveiled at Washington University in St. Louis. Led by visiting assistant professors Andrew Colopy and Ken Tracy, the observatory was designed, fabricated, and constructed in partnership with the Audubon Society and the US Army Corps of Engineers. Situated within a bird sanctuary that spans 3,700 acres of protected habitat along the Mississippi Migratory Flyway, the observatory offers a unique opportunity for birders and school groups to experience the diverse avian species that call this area home.

One of the key features of the observatory is Heron Pond, a constructed wetland that is hydrologically managed by the Corps of Engineers. This wetland serves as a crucial stopover or permanent residence for over 300 avian species. To minimize disturbance to these sensitive species, the students embarked on a project to reimagine the surrounding landscape, trail networks, vehicular access, and vegetation. The result is a carefully choreographed sequence of views that lead visitors to the observatory, enhanced by informational graphics that educate and create a memorable experience.

The exterior design of the observatory is inspired by the performance and culture of camouflage. However, the intent is not to blend in, but rather to stand out and attract visitors. While the structure catches the eye, the shaded apertures on the exterior blend into the surrounding environment, effectively hiding the presence of people. Inside, diagonal apertures allow people of varying heights to enjoy optimal viewing angles. The interior is surfaced with black perforated aluminum, which not only helps to muffle sound but also keeps the interior dimly lit, further concealing visitors from view.

An important consideration in the design of the observatory was its resilience to flooding. To mitigate the impact of modest floods, durable materials were used, and the grade was lifted just above flood stage. This not only improves visual access to Heron Pond but also ensures the observatory can withstand major floods. In such instances, the demountable exterior panels can be easily removed and taken to higher ground, protecting them from floating debris.

The Riverlands Avian Observatory project was made possible by the collaborative efforts of the Cobalt Office architectural studio, the Audubon Society, the US Army Corps of Engineers, and Washington University in St. Louis. The project received support from the Audubon Center at Riverlands, the Sam Fox School of Design Graduate School of Architecture, and the Gephardt Institute for Public Service. This remarkable structure provides a vital space for bird enthusiasts and educational groups to observe and learn about the diverse avian species that inhabit the Mississippi Migratory Flyway.

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