Mandai Bird Paradise - Penguin Exhibition

In the intricate design of penguin exhibit tanks, engineering and artistry converge to create a delicate balance. To withstand the tremendous pressure exerted by water and safeguard the health of marine life by preventing water from seeping into the rockwork, Pico Play faced a significant challenge.

Pico Play devised a pioneering solution, employing high-density EPS foam as permanent formwork for the reinforced concrete (RC) frame, which proved revolutionary. Off-site, large foam blocks were meticulously cut to precise profiles, with columns and beams intricately carved into the foam, ready to receive rebar and concrete on-site.

This innovative approach streamlined construction processes significantly. Assembling the foam blocks on-site in the correct order saved valuable time. Leaving the foam in place post-concreting served as a permanent void filler, crucial for preventing water ingress. The integration of mechanical pipework, essential for water circulation and maintenance, seamlessly blended with the foam formwork. Utilizing the foam formwork to create the rockwork profile eliminated the need for traditional mesh, allowing for direct spraying of Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) onto the foam. The final touches, sculpted by artists, brought the rockwork to life, with meticulous attention paid to every detail to ensure the safety of the penguins. Regular inspections by the client's artistic team and aviary experts ensured that the rockwork's surface remained hazard-free. In the fusion of engineering ingenuity and artistic finesse, the penguin exhibit stands as a testament to innovation and commitment, providing a secure and captivating habitat for its inhabitants.