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could be transformed in ways that would amplifies the sensorial experience of at transforming the existing linear
maximize the value of the building’s visitors transitioning from its pure path of discovery into a more dynamic
architectural heritage. The carving of a neutrality to the multi-sensorial discovery experience, where visitors take charge
new core, combined with the demolition of its adjacent ecosystems. of their own journeys through the
of the particularly low ceiling at the “It’s a very powerful tool, half a Biodome’s five ecosystems, housing more
entrance of the building, allows visitors kilometer in length and rising nearly than 250,000 animals and 500 plant
to appreciate the impressive scale of the four storeys,” explains Rami Bebawi. “It’s species. Conceptually aiming for a more
existing space. In gutting the existing extremely emblematic of the space, and immersive experience, KANVA focused
ceiling, KANVA opened the space the white purity beautifully highlights and its attention on soliciting senses, relegating
skyward to the building’s extraordinary contrasts the original structural concrete.” sight to the end of the line behind sound,
roof, composed of massive skylight panels smell, and touch. From the calming lobby
that infuse an abundance of natural light. Sensorial design hall, the undulating living skin funnels
KANVA then focused on the journey visitors into a 10-metre tunnel leading to
A calming nucleus itself, designing new passages aimed the central core, where their exploration
With a massive open space now
forming the core between the ecosystems,
KANVA parametrically designed a
living skin that they could wrap around
the ecosystems, and which would
serve as a guiding accompaniment to
visitors. With exceptionally complicated
structural engineering, the installation
of the prefabricated pure white, biophilic
skin was a monumental task. With no
room for error, the skin was curved and
stretched around a bowed aluminum
structure, using tension, cantilevering,
and triangular beams for suspension,
and was itself anchored to a primary steel
structure. Mechanical junctions were also
incorporated in order to accommodate a
variety of movements and allow for on-
site adjustments.
The translucent skin harmoniously
interacts with the skylights above, with
bevelled horizons that elicit a sense of
calm and infinity. The new core also
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