Durrell Zoo, Trinity. Jersey. / by Rory Drinnan


Client: Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust

Sector: Cultural / Hospitality / Retail

A remodelling and extension of an existing building with sustainability at its heart. The multifunctional internal and external spaces deliver new guest experiences through ticketing, retail and café environments, introducing core conservation and sustainability messages through its design and integrated displays, whilst managing the volume of visitors arriving and departing. The centrepiece of the installation is a striking granite messaging wall in multi-coloured layers, conceived as part of the ‘Durrell Timeline’ approach and entry sequence. Above this ‘inhabited’ wall is a dramatic glass canopy with leaf pattern fritting providing shelter for guests before slicing through the existing building and guiding visitors into and out of the park. Selected light fittings and furniture are reclaimed or fabricated using recycled materials in line with the clients’ sustainability ethos.  

Completed: May 2011

Design Scope: Concept development; space-planning; fit-out and interior /furniture specifications. 

Award - Best Innovative and/or Sustainable Design in the Jersey Architecture Commission Design Awards 2011

Award - Best Landscape Architecture in the Jersey Architecture Commission Design Awards 2011

Highly Commended - Best Large-scale Refurbishment or Remodelling of a Building in the Jersey Architecture Commission Design Awards 2011


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Project Manager: Rowney Sharman

Executive Architect: Ray Hole Architects

Project and Landscape Architect: Axis Mason

Main Contractor: Camerons 

Fit-out Contractions: Lotherington’s Commercial Interiors