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Halbach•Dietz
Architects |
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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 ![]()
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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. |