The Rocky Reach Discovery Center sits among the base of stunning cliffs overlooking the spillway of the Rocky Reach Dam. Like the contrast between the flowing Columbia and the heavy basalt forming its banks, two terraced and bunker-like lower levels hold aloft two civic upper stories that capture daylight and panoramic views.
Across more than six decades, visitors to the center enjoyed the beauty of the scenery, admired artifacts on display, and marveled at the horsepower harvested by the dam.
Chelan County PUD
By 2018, as part of a broader effort to modernize its facilities, Chelan County PUD set out to transform the long-standing Visitor Center into the new Rocky Reach Discovery Center—a place designed to engage a new generation of visitors. The vision called for architecture that would seamlessly frame a series of educational, interactive, exhibits developed with a nationally recognized design partner. The scope of work also sought to expand indoor-outdoor dining, add much-needed administrative space, and update aging systems and finishes throughout. Just as importantly, it aimed to resolve long-standing building envelope issues, ensuring the renewed center could serve its mission well into the future.
Inside, the main and upper levels retain the building’s midcentury character. A blend of utilitarianism, geometric order, and grace, the terrazzo flooring, expansive glass, and slender steel provide a refined backdrop to vibrant new exhibits and amenities.
As guests move deeper into the lower levels, the atmosphere shifts. The below-grade environment honors the region’s First Peoples and the Columbia River as a source of life, recreation, and economic vitality. Specialty lighting, acoustic design, and a minimalist aesthetic create a cocoon-like setting for interactive learning for guests of all ages.
A former projection room at the eye of the central stair begged for better use. Today, circular walls envelop a children’s’ Maker Space below a fantastical “chandelier” of acoustic rods.
The enlarged café and kitchen offer an expanded menu, more seating, and a place to sell branded merchandise. Upper-level outdoor dining provides sweeping views of the river and dam.
Work
