The Jockey’s
Ridge State Park visitor center, originally opened in 1998, required
improvements to better serve North Carolina’s most visited state park. The
renovations primarily focused on enhancing the visitor experience by improving
wayfinding to and through the building as visitors made their way to the dunes.
Upon arrival at the park, visitors have a clear sense of entry established by
new pathways leading from the parking area to the expanded main entry. An
exterior perforated metal canopy projects out to welcome visitors, providing
shade and drawing them inside. The canopy slides into the lobby, transitioning
between outside and inside, and folds down to provide bench seating. Selective
interior demolition opens the lobby to the exhibit wing, allowing the exhibits
to be flexibly arranged throughout the space, engaging and captivating visitors
of all ages.