welcome shelter at longbush ecosanctuary opens in new zealand

welcome shelter at longbush ecosanctuary opens in new zealand
photography by simon devit

set amid the rolling new zealand landscape, the longbush ecosanctuary welcome shelter serves as a environmental educational space designed, constructed and operated by a group of volunteers. led by designer sarosh mulla, the structure features a large steel and fabric canopy that provides shelter from both the sun and rain. rather than simply viewing the landscape, visitors are encouraged to take part in the environmental restoration occurring at the ecosanctuary through the various programs on offer.

an aerial view of the structure set amid the rolling landscape

three timber enclosures are positioned beneath the encompassing roof, providing storage space, ablution facilities and an office for the site ecologist. constructed from materials donated by 88 sponsors, the shelter utilizes simple construction techniques that maximize the environmental program through minimal architectural resources. one of the structures includes a roof deck that offers sweeping views across the picturesque landscape.

the space has been designed, constructed and operated by a group of volunteers

the structure features a large steel and fabric canopy

three timber enclosures are positioned beneath the roof canopy

the office of the site ecologist

storage space

 a roof deck offers sweeping views across the picturesque landscape

the shelter utilizes simple construction techniques that maximize the environmental program

the welcome shelter illuminated at night

project info:

designer: sarosh mulla for sarosh mulla design
location: gisborne, new zealand
project team: 88 community volunteers and 88 sponsors
client: longbush ecological trust
project year: 2015
construction period: october 2013 – december 2014
fabrication: sarosh mulla & 88 community volunteers
dimensions: 12m long x 12m wide x 6m high
area: 150 sqm / 1,615 sqf
materials: steel and architectural fabric roof canopy, with timber framed and lined enclosures
photography: simon devitt