Haynes Administration Building
A historic structure reflective of
the natural wonders of Yellowstone
Haynes Administration Building
Architecture | Interiors | Historic Preservation
Built in 1929, the Haynes Administration Building reflects a shingle style of architecture, comprised of organic wood materials that blend with the natural surroundings of Mammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone National Park. While the design is a departure from the traditional revival style customary in the Park, the organic application of raw materials relates the structure to the unique context of Yellowstone. For four decades, the building served as a retail facility for tourists, but fell into a state of disrepair due to neglect. A rehabilitation effort transformed the abandoned space into an administrative office for the Park concessionaire while preserving its original historic character. The structure was upgraded to satisfy seismic and gravity load requirements, as well as current building codes, systems, and ADA compliance.
Haynes Administration Building
A historic structure reflective of the natural wonders of Yellowstone
Architecture | Interiors |
Historic Preservation
Built in 1929, the Haynes Administration Building reflects a shingle style of architecture, comprised of organic wood materials that blend with the natural surroundings of Mammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone National Park. While the design is a departure from the traditional revival style customary in the Park, the organic application of raw materials relates the structure to the unique context of Yellowstone. For four decades, the building served as a retail facility for tourists, but fell into a state of disrepair due to neglect. A rehabilitation effort transformed the abandoned space into an administrative office for the Park concessionaire while preserving its original historic character. The structure was upgraded to satisfy seismic and gravity load requirements, as well as current building codes, systems, and ADA compliance.
Eco-minded design
Certified LEED Gold by the U.S. Green Building Council, the project prioritized energy conservation and green design. With few exceptions, the building retained both exterior and interior integrity, enabling the design team to reuse the original building structure and envelope. Additionally, recycled materials were incorporated throughout, potable landscape water use was dramatically reduced, and landscaping was minimized to protect native plants and the natural environment.
An ode to the original design
The rehabilitation capitalized on the building’s intact historic features, preserving its original architectural style in all aesthetic aspects. The original hardwood floors were removed for structural upgrades, then replaced in-kind to all public areas. After updated building systems were installed, all surfaces were repainted to match the original shade, and all windows and doors were restored or replaced to align with the historic period.
A balance between
modern and historic
The design incorporated technology into the historic space to ensure efficient administrative function within the remote environment. A new IT implementation plan was developed to adequately support a reservation call enter, as well as multiple conference rooms, while an outdoor charging hub was established for tourists’ electric vehicles.