Award-winning and sustainable centre design attracts tourists and revenue for Victoria’s eco-tourism hot-spot
The penguins on Phillip Island have a brand new visitor centre to replace their aging facility. The phenomenal community asset can accommodate an additional 100,000 visitors a year to experience a close up of Australia’s largest colony of Little Penguins. Situated within wetlands, dunes and the headlands of the Summerland Peninsula, the modern, environmentally sustainable centre presents a range of interactive events for all ages.
The star-shaped centre features a sleek concrete and timber fit-out with high timber-panelled ceilings, and expansive windows overlooking the penguin environment. An interpretive habitat space offers a penguin’s eye-view of the world along with an education wing, state-of-the-art theatre, dining and retail options. Aiming to achieve zero energy and zero carbon consumption, sustainability initiatives included energy efficient lighting and building fabric, reverse air-cooled cycle chillers for air conditioning, and is powered by solar energy.
The economical and sustainable design will safeguard the Penguin Parade visitor experience for future generations while raising revenue for vital research, environment and education programs.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Architect
- Terroir
- Awards
- William Wardell Award for Public Architecture, Victorian Architecture Awards 2020, AIA
- Regional Prize Victorian Architecture Awards 2020, Australian Institute of Architects
Cormac Kelly, Director, Specialty Services Group Leader, Victoria
My aim is to understand the occupant’s needs and develop an environment that meets those needs in an efficient and cost-effective manner.
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