Tillamook Forest CenterTillamook State Forest, OR

A seamless integration of indoor and outdoor experience From 1933 to 1951 a series of devastating fires burned almost 500 square miles of Tillamook Forest. This land eventually became the Tillamook State Forest, and has been restored to become one of America’s best examples of a sustainably managed forest.

APA worked with the Oregon Department of Forestry, and architectural partners to create a seamless onsite indoor-outdoor experience, where an outdoor forest trail transitions perfectly into an “indoor trail” exhibit before exiting back to outdoor trail interpretation on the other side. Inside, visitors are immersed in a full-sensory forest fire experience, expand their knowledge of local ecology and sustainable forestry practice, and hear stories from historic forestry figures. Outdoor experiences have visitors traversing a suspension bridge and encountering exterior interpretation and programming along the trails. APA delivered a full design package, including a design concept and detailed documentation, and management of exhibit fabrication and installation. The Center was awarded an Oregon Tourism Achievement Award in 2006.