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Through an integration of local environmental and cultural conditions the project seeks to bring a deeper purpose to downtown Lafayette. Mimicking the local ecology of mima mounds - mounds of sediment that often form in areas with high water tables - the different levels of terracing are orchestrated through sinking the exhibit halls, the architecture lending itself to shape the landscape. Further emphasizing the gateway are structural cables for the Convention Center roofs which serve a three-fold purpose of reducing truss depths, creating a solar chimney and producing an iconic shade canopy. Utilizing passive systems in the highly humid climate is difficult, but is achieved part of the year through a combination of vegetation, desiccant-based water features, natural ventilation and large shade structures.