The University of Kansas Field Station commissioned Dirt Works Studio to design and construct a new trailhead at the McColl Nature Reserve, dedicated to Stan and Janet Roth—cherished members of the Lawrence community and lifelong advocates for nature education. The resulting Roth Trailhead serves as more than just an entrance; it is a ceremonial threshold into the Field Station, a tribute to the surrounding landscape, a communal haven for nature enthusiasts, and a sculptural artifact that narrates the geological and cultural story of the land beneath.

The design of the Roth Trailhead is rooted in a minimalist yet meaningful architectural language, articulated through a few carefully considered tectonic elements. At its core stands a punctuated rammed earth wall, whose proportions are derived from the Fibonacci sequence—evoking both natural harmony and mathematical elegance. A gently curving path guides visitors along this earthen spine, while a gracefully cantilevered canopy floats overhead, offering shade and shelter without obstructing the expansive views. The composition culminates in an open-air classroom, oriented toward the prairie, inviting reflection, learning, and connection with the surrounding ecosystem.