Ngarrindjeri
South Australia
The Monarto Safari Park Visitor Centre is a unique project that aims to connect people to the environment through education and history. The heart of the project is the gathering point, which references both traditional African and Indigenous habitats. Visitors are introduced to their journey into Wild Africa through the heart space, which provides protection from harsh weather conditions and offers glimpses into the vast surroundings. The built form of the centre is divided into two distinct elements, one heavy with the use of rammed earth walls, and the other light and clad in weathering steel. The two elements are representative of the convergence of Indigenous and African cultures. The cultural story inherent in the design provides a platform for education and encourages visitors to leave as ambassadors of the Monarto Zoo. The centre offers panoramic views of the Savannah Lands, providing a memorable and iconic experience for all visitors.
Dave Bickmore, Design Architect
Graham Charbonneau, Design Architect
Olivier Martin, Project Architect
René Majewski, Project Architect
Sam Broadbridge, Project Architect
Samuel Toole, Project Architect
Stavros Zacharia, Project Architect
Terry Boxall, Design Architect
Tess Sporn, Interior Designer
BuildSurv, Building Surveyor
GTA Consultants, Traffic Consultants
Lucid Consulting Australia, Services Consultant
Mlei, Structural Engineer
WAX Design, Landscape Consultant
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
