Wheeler Park Final Review

1. Wheeler Park Nature Center
Final Review
Gisela Salas Velázquez
University of Oklahoma
Studio IV- Spring 2015

3. 1st Iteration 2nd Iteration
3rd Iteration 4th Iteration

4. 1st Concept
Developments

5. Exhibition Building Plan

6. Office Building Plan

7. South Elevation

8. North View

9. Interior Rendering

10. Interior Rendering

11. Hand Render of view from Southeast

12. Study Model

13. Other Study Model Video

14. 6th- in Scale Model

15. Wheeler Park Site Render

16. Description of Process
This concept came to be after research into the past of the site
and visiting it multiple times along the last few weeks. When I first
arrived I noticed a difference in visibility based on where one is
standing. This became the first experience. As I progressed along
the trail heading from the West to the East, I noticed a discomfort
as the trees' numbers decreased. This discomfort that was felt was
the cold. The trees at the site provide a sort of shelter, and as one
walks away from the larger trees that cause the most shielding
effect, the environment becomes more uncomfortable. The third
experience had much to do with approaching the river. As a person
walks from the parking lot toward the river, one begins to notice an
earthy smell. Almost like when it is about to rain that you can smell
it. Through these experiences the concepts developed. Some
concepts did not work due to their lack of interaction, but one
seems to be promising.

17. The inspiration for this project was drawn from experiences studied at
the Wheeler Park in Oklahoma City, OK. After numerous iterations of
the experiences and interactions with one another, the concept
developed into a building with subterranean areas as well as above
ground levels.
The design then took a turn going from four levels, to a simple two
level building. This two level building brings the visitors from the trail
found North of the Oklahoma River to an area where they can both
learn about the park and experience it. Through the sketches and
iterations found
below, you will see how the project developed and changed form
multiple times from its very beginning. The goal is for the visitor to
experience the park through the building as well as interact with it. On
their way to the exhibition center, people can see the history that this
park has had, including its purpose as the first location for a zoo in
Oklahoma City.