The Masai Mara Conservation Centre is a design competition organized by RIBA, focused on creating a visitor centre for the Masai Mara National Reserve. The aim of the project is to offer a space that enhances the visitor experience while blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
Located next to the existing gate, the new centre fits naturally into the landscape, as if it has always been part of the environment. The buildings are arranged together in a way that feels connected to the land, much like a herd of animals blending into the savanna.
Upon arrival, visitors enter through a ticket office shaded by a bamboo canopy, providing a comfortable respite from the sun. This marks the start of an immersive and educational journey. The materials used in the centre, including rammed earth, stone, and timber, are natural and grounded, helping the structure blend with its surroundings. The tactile nature of the walls makes visitors feel connected to the earth beneath their feet.
The exhibition spaces are designed with intimacy in mind. Each room is proportioned to create a calm and comfortable atmosphere, allowing visitors to appreciate the art and culture of the region without feeling overwhelmed. The design is subtle, focused on fostering reflection and engagement with the exhibits in a peaceful setting.
A key feature of the centre is the transformation of an old water tower. With a protective new skin, it has become a symbol of the Masai Mara. Next to it, a café offers shaded seating with sweeping views of the plains. From the observation deck, visitors can take in the vast landscape, feeling both part of the land and a sense of ownership over it.
The new structures have been thoughtfully integrated with the existing ones. The original entrance gate has been simplified, with its roof removed, allowing the new buildings to shine while respecting the traditional elements. This balance of old and new creates a harmonious connection between the centre’s design and the cultural heritage of the region.
In essence, the Masai Mara Conservation Centre is designed not to compete with the natural beauty of the landscape, but to enhance it. The architecture blends into the environment, offering visitors a deeper connection to the land and a greater appreciation for the Masai Mara’s ecological significance.
Category:Community CentersLocation:Narok, KenyaArchitect: Ismail Utkan Yonter, TurkiyeDesign Team: Utkan Yonter, Sara OlmezPhotographer: Courtesy of the Architects
