PARK SHOEBILL, RESOURCE CENTER, BUSI ISLAND

THE BRIEF

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The Park Shoe Bill Resource Center is envisioned as a sanctuary for birdlife and a hub for eco-education on Busi Island. The aim is to create a space that protects the habitat of the iconic shoebill stork while offering visitors, researchers, and the local community a chance to engage with the island’s rich biodiversity. The center will balance conservation with accessibility, blending naturally with the landscape through sustainable materials and a low ecological footprint. Within the facility, spaces will include a small exhibition showcasing the shoebill and other local bird species, a research and observation area for ornithologists and students, a community learning and gathering zone, and outdoor viewing decks designed for quiet birdwatching.

THE INSPIRATION

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The inspiration behind the design comes from the shoebill itself, a bird with a striking presence and sculptural form that naturally suggests ideas of structure and balance. It also draws from the organic patterns of wetlands and reeds, as well as traditional building methods used by communities around Lake Victoria. The sense of refuge is central—creating an environment that is safe and calming for both birds and people. Materials such as timber, bamboo, and thatch will be prioritized, alongside design features that make use of natural ventilation and daylight. The surrounding lake and wetlands will influence the fluid layout, reflecting harmony between the built form and the natural environment.​

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THE RESULT

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The result will be a resource center that positions Busi Island as a recognized site for conservation and eco-tourism. It will function as a learning hub for schools, universities, and international researchers, while also generating sustainable livelihoods for local residents through guiding, craftwork, and hospitality services. Beyond its physical presence, the project will help raise awareness and strengthen protection of the shoebill stork and other endangered species. The resource center will become both a landmark and a statement of cultural and ecological significance, rooted in the island’s heritage while looking forward to a future of conservation and education.