
As Architects and Heritage Advisors for the extension to the existing Giraffe barn at Melbourne Zoo, we were aware of the need to be sensitive to context and allow our building to integrate respectfully into the surroundings. This is certainly the case at Melbourne Zoo, when we were designing an extension to this Giraffe Barn, adjacent to the state heritage listed enclosure.
This project was important to provide much improved shelter and medical care for these wonderful animals and the talented people who care for them. The complexity of the project was in creating this sensitively designed extension situated adjacent to the heritage site.
We were again delighted, at the safe arrival in August 2025 of the first baby Giraffe in nearly 20 years at Melbourne Zoo, in Plico Design Studio’s purpose designed Giraffe Barn / maternity suite!










Level 1, 195 Rouse Street
Port Melbourne VIC 3207
+61 3 9645 4599
admin@plicodesignstudio.com
Instagram
@plicodesignstudio
Linkedin
/plicodesignstudio
We acknowledge the traditional Aboriginal owners of Country throughout Australia and pay our respect to them, their culture and their Elders past, present and future.
Plico Design Studio ensures that our projects respect the heritage of our first inhabitants and their ongoing people. We actively seek consultation with indigenous bodies, to ensure our projects are respectful to the full breath of Australian history.