HalbachDietz Architects

 


Project
 

KOMODO DRAGON EXHIBIT
New Facility
Fort Worth, Texas

Client
 

Fort Worth Zoological Association
 
Construction Cost $272,500
Construction Schedule
Completed August 1995
 
Services





 

Full Architectural, Structural, Civil, and MEP engineering, including schematic design, design development, cost estimating, construction documents and specifications, bidding, construction administration and shop drawing review.


Project Description

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 




 

This project consisted of exhibit space for two exotic reptile species - a komodo dragon and a gariel (a small alligator).

The indoor exhibit space was a 1,600 square foot building divided into two compartments, one for the komodo dragon and the other for the gariel.  Also, a part of this interior space was designed for a zookeeper.  Guillotine "shift doors" were used in the transport of the animals from space to space.  The komodo dragon side of the exhibit was landscaped, lighted, and air conditioned with a tropical setting.  The gariel side included an indoor pool, with a thru access to the outdoor exhibit.

The outdoor exhibit space was especially designed for the particular habitat of each animal.  The komodo dragon exhibit was depressed 2 feet below the pedestrian walking surface, and from the walking surface, a 7' high laminated glass enclosure was constructed for safe viewing of the animal.  The gariel outdoor exhibit consisted of a large pool surrounded by grassy areas for sunning.  A low laminated glass wall surrounded the exhibit. 

The two outdoor exhibit areas were connected by a boardwalk that allowed visitors to experience the animals as close to their natural environment as possible.  The entire exhibit was made accessible to keeper and service personnel.