National Wildlife Federation
Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing Physical Model

Living Habitats designed and assembled a large landscape model to communicate the in-progress design of the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing -to the client group and the public. The topographic model consists of two panels, each 30 inches by 30 inches, and was designed to fit securely into handheld cases for easy transport and display.

The model was created with a painterly approach, emphasizing clear communication of the central concepts and design moves rather than striving for a literal depiction of an evolving design. The model illustrates the ways in which the crossing will stitch together a landscape divided by US Route 101, depicting a continuous band of restored habitat and vegetation from one hillside to the other across the bridge structure. Revitalized oak woodland, chaparral, and coastal sage scrub, critical parts of the habitat mosaic. The model also illustrates the novel infrastructural interventions at the center of the project: the structure of the crossing itself as it spans US-101, two tunnels over local roads on the south side of the crossing, and the gabion walls that separate wildlife from the freeway, moving them toward and through the crossing. The gabion walls also serve to reduce the light pollution impacts of the freeway on surrounding habitat and provide sound attenuation.

The design and assembly of the model involved many members of the Living Habitats team, with adjustments being made continually as the design of the crossing continued to evolve in parallel with the construction of the model. Upon completion, the model was transported to California, where it was placed on display for P-22 Day, a celebration of life for the iconic mountain lion whose story spurred public action in defense of urban wildlife and ultimately contributed to the creation of the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing. The model now lives with the National Wildlife Federation, displayed to educate the public about the crossing, its design, and the vital importance of habitat connectivity for wildlife health and ecosystem integrity.

 

Location:
Agoura Hills, CA

Date:
September – October 2023