This competition sponsored by Arquideas.net sought to generate ideas for a new International Wildlife Center in Kruger National Park. Located in South Africa, Kruger is one of the largest national parks in the world, and hosts a number of endangered and threatened animal species such as the white rhinoceros, lion and cheetah. The structure would serve as a center for education, tourism and fundraising for the park and its native animal species.

My scheme comprises a single plinth, elevated slightly above the surrounding flat terrain, with program spaces interspersed throughout the plinth in scattered, dedicated structures. This relates symbolically to the vernacular village layout of the area, which also encouraging free-form movement throughout the building and preserving view corridors out to the surrounding landscape. The open air design also negates the need for air conditioning in the hot South African climate. A single, curved roof plane unites the spaces from above, with punctured openings at each space to facilitate direct and indirect daylighting, natural cooling and ventilation. All elements of the structure are fabricated from locally available wood and concrete, to reduce carbon footprint and construction costs. The overall image of the building relates to the surrounding natural landscape while creating an iconic form and new symbol of the park.