Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens Midland, Michigan Outdoor Building, American Architecture Images
Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens in Midland, Michigan
Nov 8, 2020
Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens, Michigan
Design: Metcalfe Architecture & Design, LLC.
Location: Midland, Michigan, USA

Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens wins at American Architecture Awards 2020
Photos by Nic Lehoux
Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens is the latest nature-play project designed by Philadelphia-based Metcalfe. Located in Midland, Michigan, the installation opened in October 2018 as an experience-oriented complement to the Dow Gardens complex, the landmark public gardens established in 1899 by Herbert H. Dow.
Comprising a dynamic network of bridges, paths, and tree canopy walkways that are populated with engaging gathering points and interactive features, Metcalfe’s design offers a close-up, four-season experience throughout the 54-acre forest of native northern pine from a variety of unexpected vantage points. On the journey through the woods, visitors encounter a series of “right-brained” experiences involving a progression of open fields and dark forests. People are not constrained to staying on trails; the more they wander, the closer they get to nature and opportunities for introspection. The site also includes a new playground, apple orchard, two bridges, an amphitheater, Visitor Center, a café, and Forest Classroom.
“This active, participatory environment is an architectural ...