In collaboration with treehouse specialists Blue Forest, we started working with the Eden Project in 2011 to design a series of high level visitor walkways through the rainforest canopy in the existing Humid Tropics Biome. These new interventions will include a treetop research station, an area explaining sustainable rainforest crops, a traditional indigenous treehouse and a waterfall cave.

We completed Phase 1 of the walkway in 2013 with Phase 2 finishing in May 2017. This includes a new high level loop with two 20 metre long bridges and a 25 metre rope bridge spanning to an 8 metre high platform, which is an education space to explain the complex rainforest ecosystem. We are planning a future timber enclosure to this platform, dubbed the ‘Biodiversity Nest’ which is due on site shortly.

Tate + Co have the ability to think openly and work sensitively within our Rainforest Biome to create a series of magical new visitor experiences. A great team to work with. ”

Jo Elworthy, Director of Interpretation, The Eden Project

Construction was technically challenging as the site could only be accessed by a set of existing double doors in the biome. The build had to be very aware of the delicate planting and avoid causing any damage. Another consideration was the ‘weather system’; all construction materials had to withstand the harsh, rainforest environment. The team also had to complete within a seasonal construction period of five months for each phase and the biome had to remain open to the public throughout.