In May 2007, Built Environs completed the $3.5 million Amazon Waterlily Pavilion project in the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, South Australia.

The project delivered a state-of-the-art architecturally-designed glasshouse and surrounds for the display and care of the Giant Amazon Waterlily (Victoria Amazonica), a major attraction that was first introduced into the Gardens in 1868.

Built Environs demolished the existing building, restored the original heritage-listed lily pond, constructed the complex glass and steel pavilion and installed the high-specification services and finishes, as well as construct an integrated paveway and water run-off system and re-instate the surrounding grounds.

With around 95% of the structure - including load-bearing areas - constructed from 6.5 t of glass, 3D computer modelling was required to ensure accurate sizing and positioning, and to assist with manufacturing, delivery and construction logistics.

The whole project was completed within the extremely sensitive Botanic Gardens environment, with prevention of run-off and damage to vegetation adding to the usual safety concerns of working within a busy public area.

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