Myanmar’s woodlands are starting to disappear because of deforestation and illegal wood trades during decades of Military regime. Forest areas are decreasing rapidly while the people receive barely any benefit from these trades. Moreover, local wood-craft industry is under-appreciated as the country is only starting to trade internationally after years of isolation. 

I carried out interviews with environmental activist and students from Myanmar to identify more about environmental crisis and educational needs. I collected data and information about wood trades in Myanmar in which I discovered that elephants are important to Myanmar’s wood trades. I investigated the forms of the elephant through sketches and models which influenced my design process. I also explore light and shadow through 3D sketch models to identify the mood an atmosphere I want for my design.

I will be designing an educational centre with wood product shop, museum and a café,  indoor teaching facility and arts and crafts studio in Hlawga Wildlife Park. This building will attract local and foreign donors to raise funds to help contribute to woodland conservation charities & timber elephants charity.