Bespoke Aviary Structure, Private Client
ARC was approached by a private client with the unusual need to create a bespoke aviary structure for several large, rare birds for a new breeding programme in the UK.
It was also made clear that the aviary, although large in scale, had to sit comfortably within the rural setting. Sustainable use of materials was also a key factor in the design of the aviary, with a directive from the client that locally sourced materials and labour were to be used throughout the build.
Brief
The brief was to create a large stand-alone robust aviary structure that would house the birds with safety and comfort for the bird’s paramount. Discussions with the client and DEFRA began early on in the project with welfare and protection of the birds imperative to the aviary design and build. Careful consideration was given to the selection of the mesh used, there was a fine balance to be struck between keeping the birds enclosed while ensuring that they could not become entangled in the mesh if they tried to take flight.
Outcome
The resulting design was a 40m x 23m bespoke aviary structure constructed into 4 individual pen spaces with a 25% covered canopy roof, completed by a 40m x 3 m storage and workshop space designed behind the pens.
In place of steel masts that may have been traditionally used in a structure of this magnitude, the structure was designed and engineered with locally sourced engineered timber posts supporting the load of the PE mesh netting. As an extra safety factor, we then constructed a further perimeter wall from galvanised steel mesh to prevent animals gaining entry to the aviary.
At the request of DEFRA, the final touch was a anti-fly curtain system we designed using from a Serge Ferrari PVC mesh.The entire structure was then timber clad in redwood tongue and groove, to allow it to blend seamlessly with the surrounding countryside.
Earlier this Autumn, the birds were delivered to their new home, we hear are very happy and safe in their new environment.