Emphasizing the interdependence of the natural and manmade environments, the angular masses of the museum recall the shifting sand dunes that existed on the site before it was converted to parkland in the late 19th century. To preserve existing trees and land contours, the footprint of the demolished park maintenance sheds determined the building’s placement. A transparent entrance lobby leads to a ravine with native plantings and the pond beyond. The glazed butterfly haven flanks this space to the north. Jurors praised the museum’s spatial variety and the relationship of building to landscape.