11
“IT WASN’T TO READ ANYTHING LIKE A
COMMERCIAL OFFICE BUILDING, BUT AS A
PUBLIC INSTITUTION AND A REFLECTION OF
WHAT TAKES PLACE WITHIN.”
Barbara Bamford,
Bamford Architects
The role of building as billboard is obviously
important when ‘visibility’ is almost transferable
with ‘viability’.
That’s true. That branding and image is critical. It
wasn’t to read anything like a commercial office
building, but as a public institution and a reflection of
what takes place within. It’s an opportunity to utilize
the site and showcase the RSPCA’s activities on a very
busy public arterial.
There’s a global trend towards a more enlightened
treatment of animals and this project really reflects
that shift in community views doesn’t it?
What helps to set this facility apart is that the dogs
and cats have been moved indoors. That requires
some complicated mechanical design. These places
demand really efficient fresh air exchange because
animal areas can be smelly. That’s something we’ve
really addressed and virtually eliminated the odours
that often occur in cramped or confined conditions
where a large number of animals are housed. In terms
of mechanical air change and circulation, it sits well
above the code of practice for animal welfare and at a
level required by the RSPCA.
High Visibility