Belvidere Park District Administration Building

The administration facility enables the owner's imagination of a building which seemingly grows of the hillside, planted like an outcropping of rock. To substantiate this visual metaphor, a natural cut limestone, native to the area, services as the outer skin for the lower level; the upper level is clad in a tumbled brick, chosen for its aged appearance. The 10,600 square foot building appears single story along most of its north facade, while the rest of the perimeter stands exposed its full 2-story height.
The entrance bridge spans a quick, 12-foot drop in elevation to carry staff and users from the parking lot through the main entrance, crossing a threshold from the unnatural asphalt to the serene park setting and the administration building nestled within. Those inside the building are surrounded by exceptional views, and low window sills underscore the panorama.