Bristol Zoo is on the Move
We’re all going to the Zoo tomorrow…
Remember that one?
Today we were reminiscing about our work at Bristol Zoo…. Tomorrow (and over the next 2 years…) our much-loved zoo will complete its relocation to the Wild Place. Quattro has had design input at both sites. A happy connection!
The Conservation Education Centre, was our initial zoo project, designed by our talented team of Education Architects. This building required an elevation to the historic Clifton residential street on one side and to the Bristol zoo gardens on the other. Early ambassadors of Sustainable Design, Quattro’s scheme included an innovative and low energy ventilation tube that ran through the ground beneath the site providing free pre-heated air.
The Terrace Theatre design, built in 2003, was delivered by Quattro’s team of Leisure Architects and provides a unique backdrop and interactive space for Bristol Zoo to exhibit and present animals.
The simple and striking concept of crisp triangular structure and a mix of natural materials fitted right into this key location in the centre of the zoo.
The building has stood the test of time well and still looks great – the green sedum roof is nearly 20 years old, has proved an effective low maintenance solution and illustrates again, Quattro’s early embrace of sustainable design.
In 2008, Quattro worked with Bristol Zoo and other design teams to develop ambitious planning stage, masterplan designs for a new National Wildlife Conservation Park at the Wild Place Project site. Following the 2008 recession, the ambitious plans were significantly scaled back and the Wild Place project subsequently concentrated on prioritising a select number of exhibits where animals would benefit from the large space available.
Quattro’s original Leisure masterplan detailed a range of proposals at the Wild Place site, including the new visitors centre, a restaurant and a new veterinary educational facility.  We also developed proposals for the listed mansion on the site, including transforming the walled garden into a covered orangery with a lightweight glazed roof.
Many of our staff visit the Wild Place project and we are excited to see how this site further develops and incorporates the Zoo.
