 |
|---|
 |
|---|
 |
|---|
 |
|---|
 |
|---|
 |
|---|
Rwanda is the most densely populated country in Sub Saharan Africa with over 441 people per square kilometer. By 2050 the population will double again, putting immense pressure on what little land is still available, and existing deforestation challenges. Saving gorillas is an important mission, yet the value of this mission reaches beyond the forest to help the entire ecosystem - people and wildlife - thrive together.
THE ELLEN DEGENERES CAMPUS OF THE DIAN FOSSEY GORILLA FUND
JULY 2018 - AUGUST 2019
MASS DESIGN GROUP
Kinigi, Musanze District, Rwanda
Under Construction
45,000 ft²
As one of the projects design leads, I was involved with the project from early concept design through to the end of construction documentation. I helped lead a small team in the design of the exterior envelope of the main campus buildings as well as structural design coordination throughout the project. During concept and design development I led the 3D modeling and production of presentation drawings and renders.
 |
|---|
MASS partnered with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund to design and build a new campus to amplify the organization’s role as the world’s largest and longest-running organization for gorilla conservation. The Fossey Fund has a long history in Rwanda, starting with the founding of the Karisoke Research Center in Volcanoes National Park by Dr. Dian Fossey in 1967.
​
The Fossey Fund campus will include: a Conservation Gallery to educate tourists; an Education Outreach Center to increase opportunities for students, staff, and the community; a Research Center to enhance cutting-edge research on gorillas and their habitats; and housing for students, staff, and researchers. The Ellen DeGeneres Campus will amplify the Fossey Fund’s mission of conservation to protect and study gorillas, while training the next generation of African conservationists and growing the conservation capacity of local communities, and is supported by a generous lead gift from the Ellen Fund.
 |
|---|
Footprint
Green Roofs & Pollinators
Landscape Reforestation with
Native Species
Volcanic Soil Reuse
Naturalized Wastewater System
Rainwater Harvesting System
Handprint
Volcanic Stone
Stone Foundations
Local Wood & Bamboo
Locally Fabricated Furniture
Native Species Planting
Community Engagement Programs
 |
|---|
 |
|---|
 |
|---|
 |
|---|
 |
|---|
 |
|---|
 |
|---|
 |
|---|
 |
|---|
 |
|---|