LSU Hilltop Arboretum Facilities
Educational and Administrative Complex
In 1995, Friends of Hilltop turned its thoughts in earnest toward the construction of a multi-use Education and Administrative facility on the site. The search for an architect began with a very specific set of directives in mind:
- the building had to be unique;
- it had to speak to the site;
- be sensitive to the Arboretum's very special environment;
- and respect the historical significance of the setting and the wonderful legacy gifted to us by founder, Emory Smith.
Ted Flato with Lake/Flato Architects, a nationally recognized vernacular architecture firm out of San Antonio, Texas was selected in 1996 to develop the design for the building. It was a perfect partnership: "Lake/Flato believes that architecture should respond to its particular place, enhance a site and be a natural partner with the environment."
The building deliberately separates the parking from the natural areas creating a sense of entry into the heart of the Arboretum. The administrative offices, gift shop, storage, library, and meeting spaces are captured under one long roof protecting the open walkways which connect the enclosed spaces. The building takes cues from the local agricultural pole barns, the formal historical raised plantation homes, and the vernacular "shotgun" and "dogtrot" building forms.
Upon its completion in May of 2002, Friends of Hilltop Arboretum donated the building to Louisiana State University.
The building received the 2002 Louisiana Associated Builders and Contractors Pelican Chapter Award. In 2004 it received both the Texas Society of Architects Design Award and the San Antonio AIA Award.
Picture this! Share the excitement of the construction process from groundbreaking to completion. Your self-guided tour is just a click away!
The Hilltop Pavilion and grounds are available to groups for special occasions such as weddings and corporate events.
View our Rental Policy.
Please send your comments and questions to hilltop@tigers.lsu.edu |