The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has initiated an international open design competition for a new conservation centre in the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya.
The proposed site for the Maasai Mara Conservation Centre is at Oloololo Gate – the north-eastern section of the reserve.
The project vision is to create an innovative tourist facility that can be used to accommodate education about conservation, the balance of delicate ecosystems, the traditions of the Maasai people, and the natural and cultural significance of the region. The purpose of the centre is to deepen visitors’ knowledge of the profound importance of the Maasai Mara region – as the site where millions of animals journey to during the Great Migration that occurs annually.
The competition brief outlines that the proposed centre should be designed with sustainable principles in mind, using eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient technologies, and renewable energy sources. The design should also be respectful to the Maasai people and the landscape by incorporating features of local culture and heritage and by being sympathetic to the landscape.
The competition will follow the open design process with the first stage seeking anonymous concept designs. Following an assessment of the entries, a shortlist of up to five designs will be selected to proceed to the second phase of the competition.
The competition is being held on behalf of Abercrombie and Kent Philanthropy, the philanthropic arm of travel company Abercrombie and Kent. Cristina Levis, chief executive officer at Abercrombie and Kent Travel Group, said, the new conservation centre is more than just a building; “it’s a symbol of sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship, aiming to protect the Maasai Mara’s natural beauty and cultural legacy. It reflects our vision of a sustainable future through eco-friendly design and education.”
The competition is open internationally to registered architects. Architects should be registered with the Architects Registration Board in the UK, or an equivalent, recognised overseas regulatory authority. Since May 2023, Australia and the UK have had a mutual recognition agreement for architects’ registrations. Collaboration is encouraged between individuals and organisations of different sizes and different areas of expertise.
View the full competition brief and for details on how to register here. The closing date for submission of design proposals is Tuesday 18 June 2024 at 12.00 pm.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
