Maasai Mara

- Client RIBA Royal Institute of British Architects
- Year 2024
- Partner Davide Bardini, Render: Matteo Migliaccio
The new Masai Mara Conservation and Education Centre is conceived as a living organism, intricately woven into its natural and anthropic surroundings. As the Centre extends seamlessly into the landscape, its suspended linear footbridges and scattered volumes intentionally defy rigid hierarchies and forms.

The network of footbridges creates an immersive experience for visitors, allowing them to safely wander through the wilderness while enjoying a continuous 360-degree view of the landscape. These footbridges offer dedicated viewpoints that allow visitors to engage intimately with the nature around, while they also connect exhibition spaces and terraces for seating and resting.

The exhibition area integrates traditional exhibits, immersive displays, and hands-on activities to foster active learning through diversification of educational engagement strategies.




The Centre’s sustainable design incorporates eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient passive strategies. Rainwater collected from the roof is stored, facilitating water distribution and reducing infrastructure demands. South-facing photovoltaic panels harness solar energy, minimizing reliance on non-renewable sources. Passive strategies like natural ventilation and ample daylighting further reduce energy consumption. The elevated structure prevents soil erosion, enhances ventilation, and ensures resilience against flooding.

The design of the Centre also incorporates Maasai’s culture inspirations. Traditional elements and local materials blend with the building’s aesthetic. The color palette that features the roofing structure draws inspiration from Maasai Mara fabrics, echoing their patterns and colorings. This integration of cultural and natural elements enhances the visitor experience, fostering a sense of place and belonging.