I began working with Jean Wiedeheft (Land Stewardship Director) and Nancy Lackner (Development Assistant) on furniture selections for the Indian Creek Nature Center in the late spring of 2015 before the ground was even broken on the new facility. Opening in late September 2016, the 290-acre Nature Center is Iowa’s only privately owned and managed non-profit nature center.
Indian Creek Nature Center is one of only a six “Living Building Challenge” buildings worldwide. The “Living Building Challenge” is a certification program that builds upon LEED Certification. Located at 5300 Otis Road SE in Cedar Rapids, the 12,000 square foot building is Iowa’s largest net-zero (fully self-sustaining) building. The new center is expected to generate its own energy from wind and solar sources, collect its own water, and treat its own waste.
IPI provided eleven remanufactured ImageMaker offices for staff and Mission Series Office furniture for the two executive offices. All offices also received a sit-to-stand table desk. IPI also produced Mission seating for the Bird room and custom display cases.
IPI was honored to be a part of such a unique project that will serve visitors from around the world. Visitors to the center can hike the trails, take in a nature class, participate in an outdoor yoga class, or even learn about beekeeping. Indian Creek Nature Center offers programing year round for all ages from young children to the elderly. The gift shop even offers honey and maple syrup (delicious) made from the bees and maple trees on site. The building is available to rent for weddings, corporate meetings, family reunions.