In a region of exceptional prehistoric and geological significance, the Project was designed to accommodate exhibition spaces that present the region’s significant geological phenomena, as well as an immersive theatre, café, gift shop and visitor facilities. The Visitor Centre provides a permanent presence from which the special site can be fully understood, experienced, studied and protected. The elevated buildings, which lightly touch the earth, were positioned to avoid disturbing natural drainage runs and wadis that collect and disperse downhill water from the Jebel. The pods, which take inspiration from the fossilised urchins found on site, offer structure-free exhibition space. Linking the pods and looping sinuously around the site is an outdoor trail accessed from the main exhibition area. Designed to both be inviting for schools in the area and attract and retain staff, the Buhais Geology Park Interpretive Centre also refurbished a dilapidated access track and arrival signage.
Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture
