Abercrombie & Kent and Royal Institute of British Architects Unveil Global Design Contest for Masai Mara Conservation Centre

Shaping the Future of Conservation: A Search for Iconic Architecture at Oloololo Gate

April 23, 2024

In an exciting development for conservation efforts, Abercrombie & Kent (A&K), in partnership with the Mara Triangle Conservancy and with the support of Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy (AKP), has announced the launch of an international open design competition for a Masai Mara Conservation Centre at Oloololo Gate, Masai Mara, Kenya. This initiative is managed in collaboration with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) to create a state-of-the-art facility that aims to redefine sustainable tourism and conservation education in one of the world’s most treasured natural environments.

Returning to the Birthplace of A&K
The Masai Mara is not only a jewel in the crown of Kenya’s natural heritage but also the birthplace of Abercrombie & Kent. It was here, amid the vast landscapes and unparalleled wildlife, that Geoffrey Kent began the A&K journey with the opening of its first luxury tented camp and the initiation of guided safaris that set new standards in luxury and adventure travel. The new Conservation Centre at Oloololo Gate is envisioned as a testament to A&K’s enduring legacy and deep-rooted commitment to the region, showcasing the profound impact of AKP’s initiatives in the Masai Mara and beyond.

Cristina Levis, Chief Executive Officer, Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group said: "A&K’s foundation is rooted in Kenya's heritage, with a passionate commitment to conservation and honouring the Maasai culture. The new Conservation Centre at Oloololo Gate is more than a building; it's a symbol of sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship, aiming to protect the Masai Mara's natural beauty and cultural legacy. It reflects our vision of a sustainable future through eco-friendly design and education."

A Hub of Conservation and Cultural Insight
The proposed Conservation Centre will serve as a focal point for visitors to the Masai Mara, providing an immersive educational experience that highlights the significance of the natural and cultural heritage of the area. From the spectacle of the great migration to the intricate coexistence of the Maasai people and wildlife, the centre aims to deepen visitors' understanding and appreciation of the Mara’s unique ecosystem.

A Hub of Conservation and Cultural Insight
The proposed Conservation Centre will serve as a focal point for visitors to the Masai Mara, providing an immersive educational experience that highlights the significance of the natural and cultural heritage of the area. From the spectacle of the great migration to the intricate coexistence of the Maasai people and wildlife, the centre aims to deepen visitors' understanding and appreciation of the Mara’s unique ecosystem.

Impactful Initiatives by AKP
Underpinning the project is the ongoing work of Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy, whose initiatives in the Masai Mara have brought tangible benefits to local communities and conservation efforts. From providing clean water to thousands of students through the Safe Water for Schools Initiative to nourishing young minds with the School Feeding Program, AKP’s contributions are a cornerstone of A&K’s mission to travel with purpose.

Joining Hands for Conservation
The collaboration with the Mara Triangle Conservancy and the guidance of a distinguished adjudication panel, including experts from RIBA, A&K Travel Group, the Mara Triangle Conservancy, and the architectural community, ensure a comprehensive approach to the selection of a design that encapsulates the vision of the Conservation Centre.

A&K’s Commitment to Excellence and Philanthropy
Geoffrey Kent, A&K’s founder, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, “The Conservation Centre at Oloololo Gate is a bridge between our past achievements and our future ambitions. It symbolises our commitment to conservation, community engagement, and the promotion of sustainable tourism practices that respect and preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Masai Mara which we’ve been committed to for over 60 years since our inception in Kenya.”

How To Apply
The competition is open from Monday 15 April 2024, with the deadline for Phase 1 designs on Tuesday 18 June 2024. It is open to any registered architect, who must be officially registered through RIBA Competitions and have a Unique Registration Number (URN). Entries are subject to a registration fee of £50+VAT. Please visit here and click on the ‘register to enter’ button. Full details of the design brief can be found here. The winning design will be announced in October 2024. For more information visit www.architecture.com or email [email protected].

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