Architecture designed for animals.
And the humans who share their world.
I design new facilities, upgrades, and master plans that give animals agency. You get a clear plan with budget and timeline for smooth operations and higher public satisfaction.
Animals come first
Spaces designed to give animals choice, reduce stress, and support self regulation.
Made for humans too
Safe for staff, welcoming for visitors, easy to operate.
You stay in the loop
You'll work with me from start to finish, with clear communication every step.
Trusted by teams who put animals first
Does your current setup let your animals, staff, and visitors down?
Outdated design costs you time, budget, and reputation.
Your habitat is showing its age
It was designed years ago, or science has moved on. Animals aren't thriving, and safety is getting worse.
Work takes longer than it should
Handling takes too long and routes don't make sense. It's not safe or efficient. Visitors notice when things don't flow.
You need a specialist
You need a specialist who understands species behavior, how staff actually work, and how to deliver from day one.
If this is where you are, I see you. Whether you need a new facility, an upgrade, or a master plan, we can set the right foundations for your animals, staff, and visitors.
This is what a well designed habitat feels like
I design for animals first. Whether you are planning a new facility, an upgrade, or a master plan, I guide you through a clear process so that:
Animal agency starts with the environment. That is why every habitat is planned with the right light, sound, and space.
Your animals have choice
Clear keeper routes and defined safe zones make tasks easier. Tools are close at hand, visitor flow is predictable, and work feels steady.
Daily work feels under control
You work directly with me through simple stages, regular updates, and clear timelines. I visit when it matters and deliver clean, build ready documents.
Everything feels harmonious
This work is complex. I make it simple by taking it one clear step at a time.
“Her approach is both professional and collaborative. She brings experience, knowledge and a genuine commitment to creating spaces that work — not only for the animals but also for the people.”
________
MULTI CABLE Ltd
My Projects Around the World
My work spans international collaborations across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, where I design animal habitats, conservation facilities, and large-scale master plans for zoos and wildlife parks in partnership with global organizations, architects, and conservationists.
“Nadia's research skills and ambition to develop zoo architecture are impressive and will be of great value for the zoological world.”
________
ANNA TADRA
Marketing Department, The Warsaw Zoological Garden
How we work together
Discovery Call
We talk about your project and its needs, your vision, the context, and what you want to achieve.
This is where I listen, ask questions, and understand your priorities, constraints, and goals.
What this step gives you:
✓ Clarity on your situation
✓ A space to explain what matters
✓ Confidence that you are speaking with a specialist
STEP 1
Right Direction
Based on our conversation, we choose the right direction for your project.
This may start with a functional layout, a master plan, or a focused design scope.
What this step gives you:
✓ Clear direction instead of assumptions
✓ A solid base before detailed design begins
✓ A shared understanding you can align your team around
STEP 2
Design Development
I design in stages with regular check ins and room to adjust.
You see the project taking shape as it develops.
What this step gives you:
✓ Visibility and control
✓ The ability to make informed decisions
✓ Progress you can share with partners, teams, investors
STEP 3
Project Delivery
You receive conceptual or detailed design drawings, visuals, and documents ready for the next step.
Everything is structured so a local architect can complete construction drawings and permitting.
What this step gives you:
✓ Confidence to take the next step
✓ A project that works for animals and people
✓ Materials ready for approvals, funding, or construction
STEP 4
Services & Pricing
I work in stages so you only invest in what you need, when you need it. Every project is custom and starts with a clear scope.
Functional layout
For when you need a safe, workable base before anything else. I help you see how animals, keepers, and visitors move through the space so it works from day one.
YOU WILL GET:
• A plan for future growth
• Safe routes that reduce stress and risk
• Early ideas for theming and identity
• Clear zones for animals, staff, and visitors
Master Plan
For when you are planning a park and need long term direction. I help you organise and regenerate the land, buildings, and circulation into a living landscape.
YOU WILL GET:
• Smarter use of land and space
• Clear direction for future growth
• A plan that can evolve over time
• Easier conversations with boards and investors
Animal Facility Design
For when you're creating or upgrading one habitat and need it done right. I turn species needs into a safe, ethical space ready for approvals or construction.
YOU WILL GET:
• Safe, logical spaces for your team
• A habitat where animals have agency
• Clear drawings and material guidance
• Confidence to move into the build phase
“Nadia's project fulfilled all the necessary aspects of animal welfare and necessary flexibility to house a group of gorillas.”
________
DONG GUIXIN
Vice-President, Chimelong Safari Park
Meet your animal architect and partner
I care deeply about animals and the people responsible for them. I know how much sits on your decisions.
What I bring:
9+ years focused only on animal architecture, with international projects
I design around how each species senses the world: light, sound, space, and movement
Clear stages, clean documents, and honest timelines
Direct access to me from start to finish with fast replies and focused meetings
Custom teams with zoological and technical specialists when needed I know you need a facility that works for animals and your team every day.
I'll help you design it with care, deliver on time, and build it to last.
“Nadia Riley was instrumental in ensuring the project's design process was successful, bringing her expertise and creativity to every aspect of the design and execution. She is reliable, collaborative, and an excellent communicator.”
________
NADIA BENEDETTI
Parco Faunistico Le Cornelle Srl
Questions you might have
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I have worked exclusively in animal architecture for over eight years across zoos, sanctuaries, veterinary clinics, equine facilities, and private projects worldwide. If you are looking for range and proven results in this niche, I have them, and I bring that experience to decisions that affect your animals every day.
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It depends on scope, timeline, and deliverables. Functional layouts start around £6,000. Master plans range from £18,000 to £65,000. Animal facility design runs from £10,000 to £20,000. I give transparent ranges upfront and tailor the investment to what you actually need. Clients tell me I overdeliver for the price.
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Yes. Small means custom, not limited. I don't use cookie‑cutter templates or carry corporate overhead, so my pricing stays reasonable. For larger or complex projects, I build custom teams with zoological and technical consultants who support the work where needed. You get specialist attention without inflated costs.
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We work in defined stages with clear agreements. If scope changes, we discuss it, adjust the timeline and budget if needed, and move forward with transparency. You stay in control.
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You review and give input at key stages. I handle research, coordination, and documentation. Meetings are structured and efficient. You are informed, not overwhelmed.
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Yes. I have designed projects across multiple countries and understand different regulations, cultures, and site conditions. Remote coordination, site visits, and clear communication make it work.
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You receive complete documentation ready for approvals, funding, or construction. I offer a clear handover and remain available if questions come up during the next phase.
Ready to start a project that truly works for your animals, your team, and your visitors?
Let's talk about your goals, and how I can help. You'll speak with me directly.