28 January 2009

Panda-ring to SA

With the arrival of two Pandas to Adelaide Zoo this year comes a unique opportunity for Hassellâ€™s Architects.

Appointed by The Royal Zoological Society of South Australia Hassell are currently completing a redevelopment of the Adelaide Zoo, including the design of new panda enclosures to welcome Wang Wang and Funi – the first Giant Pandas ever to be loaned to a zoo in Australia.

Along with new designs for the Entrance precinct and an upgrade of the zoo’s perimeter, the $AU33m the project is a strategic move by the Zoo’s Board of Management to establish Adelaide Zoo as a centre of excellence for Conservation and animal husbandry.

“Now in its 130th year, the Adelaide Zoo is a South Australian icon, and one which holds a special place in the hearts of all those who live in this city,” says Zoos South Australia CEO, Dr Chris West.

The new Panda enclosures contrast the historical forest environment the Giant Panda once inhabited (‘P1 enclosure’) with the new human influenced environment of their native China (‘P2 enclosure’). Behind the enclosures is a state-of-the-art holding building for Wang Wang and Funi.

The new enclosures will provide a number of vantage points from which to view the Pandas. Plants have been selected that mimic their native habitat, however consideration has also been given to blending in existing native and exotic plant species.

“With only seven other zoos in the world accommodating Giant Pandas, this project provides Adelaide with a wonderful opportunity to showcase its delivery of global best practice in zoo design, within the sustainable parameters of our city,” says Sharon Mackay Hassell’s Senior Associate – Landscape Architecture.

“The development will meet, and hopefully exceed, world standards in the areas of animal welfare and conservation, environmental sustainability and tourism, as well as creating a terrifically enhanced venue for enjoyment by locals and visitors to this state.”

Construction on the site will be completed to coincide with the arrival of the Pandas.

Hassell
hassell.com.au

Adelaide Zoo
adelaidezoo.com.au

Adelaide zoo enclosure 1