Taronga Institute of Science and Learning

The Taronga Conservation Society is about so much more than running Australia’s most famous zoo. So when designing their new Institute of Science and Learning, our goal was to bring the best of what they do together, and share it with the world.

Education and scientific discovery are at the heart of wildlife conservation, so it was important to showcase the work of Taronga in these areas.

Over three levels, converging in a large, light atrium, our design for the Institute united three distinct hubs – Learning, Science and Collaboration, to connect the zoo to the wider story.

The Science Hub showcases and benefits from the zoo’s unique data and specimens. The facility is not only for research scientists but also university students, fostering the next generation of conservation innovation. Specialist laboratories and digital teaching labs provide opportunities to broaden partnerships with leading universities. These labs are glass fronted to place science on display.

The Learning Hub allows students from early learning, high school, through to researchers and tertiary students to interact with the zoo. Three immersive classrooms themed around rainforest, arid and woodland habitats transform education at the Zoo and provide authentic STEM learning.

The Visitor Hub allows a connection between visitors and the Institute. It has been designed for one-of-a-kind experiences to create a closer bond between students, scientists, animals and 300 staff.

In 2019 the Institute was recognised by Learning Environments Australasia and the Australian Institute of Architects as an innovative learning space.

The result is a dynamic, innovative space that connects people of all ages with the principles and practice of conservation, through closer encounters and immersive experiences.