NREL is the national leader in renewable energy research and development. Inspired by the unique mesa environment and a net zero energy, LEED Platinum-certified building, the Research Support Facility landscape is a new paradigm for site design. Set against the backdrop of South Table Mountain in Golden, Colorado the NREL shortgrass prairie is dotted with native rabbitbrush, wild plum, and three-leaf sumac. Jagged rock outcroppings line the steep slopes to the north with willows and cottonwoods populating the natural arroyos. Walls and water shaped program elements given the extreme topography at the toe of the mountain and two large arroyos cutting through the site.