DP architects initiates river safari as an immersive journey

DP architects initiates river safari as an immersive journey
all images courtesy of DP architects

blending nature, wildlife and the built environment, ‘river safari’ is asia’s first river-themed wildlife park. singaporean firm DP architects have integrated a series of walkways and locally crafted zoo exhibition spaces into the extensive program. situated along the upper seletar reservoir and nestled between the singapore zoo and night safari, the immersive experience is based as journey across eight different freshwater environments. the 12 hectare route travels through the amazon, congo, ganges, mekong, mississippi, murray, nile and yangtze rivers, showcasing the different wildlife that is indigenous to each featured location. the pathways and exhibition spaces through the various landscapes were designed to be in close proximity with the animals, enabling an unusually intimate experience.

the entrance plaza is functions as a small village and is intended for resting and socializing

on arrival, visitors are led by a covered walkway to the entrance plaza. this area functions as a ‘village’ and is intended to be used for meeting, socializing and resting before setting off to the other destinations. the two-storey huts were designed using local materials with extensive, treated bamboo screens positioned underneath – transforming their otherwise solid, metal roofs into a lightweight canopy. these structures are supported by a cluster of twisting steel columns, terminating at the top to reveal a circular skylight that reflects the existing perimeter trees. the giant panda exhibit, the most anticipated of the river safari’s attractions, utilizes the surrounding topography to position visitors at eye level with the animals. the river safari challenges conventional zoo planning, combining education with a sense of wonder and discovery.

the two-storey huts were built using local materials with treated bamboo screens

the vertical aluminum trellis helps to filter daylight into the staircase and interior

the solid metal roof is transformed into a lightweight canopy through the treated bamboo

a central skylight features a wooden trellis veil, enlivening the interior of the bathrooms in the entrance plaza

the bathrooms are designed as semi-outdoor spaces with a focus on the use of local materials

the glazed dome structure of the giant panda forest encloses a temperature and humidity-controlled space

the panda enclosure is served by an elevated walkway, allowing encounters with the animals at eye level

the ‘river safari’ situated along the upper seletar reservoir

a 165m-long bridge traverses over the upper seletar reservoir

site plan

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