Design Development Phase:

In this phase we take the overall concept and develop all of the various elements into workable design.

With so many unknowns, especially with regards to structural or landscape architecture, mechanical and electrical as well as animal husbandry requirements, this is a constantly changing process to accommodate all of the factors. At this planning stage, we will make a preliminary assessment of the available budget and resources, and design accordingly.

Initially, we work with Content development to expand on the educational message, we create scenarios that have a high degree of relevance to the storyline, showcase features or elicit animal behaviours.

We also devise a strategy and style for the interpretive media – graphics, audio visual or live presentation, and ensure that they complement the exhibit intent.

Our approach during design development is to resolve the design challenges in three-dimension. That is to say we prefer to produce card and plastic-clay developmental models before we go to paper. Natural landscapes are amorphous and organic, there are relationships between the exhibitry, architecture and engineering and all manner of M&E, technical and sightline/viewpoint issues to consider. We see little benefit in laying down an exhibit on flat paper without thoroughly exploring it in three dimension. For that reason we see the models as essential design tools.

Once the space has been defined, preliminary enclosure or tank drawings are produced and technical features such as lighting, climate control, filtration and husbandry requirements are co-ordinated with your staff and specialist contractors. At the end of this phase we will present the developed models, a document containing a full assessment of the design, as well as draft drawings for your approval.

Next: Complete Design Phase