London-based Marks Barfield Architects has won an international design competition for a eco-heritage project based on the Aldabra Atoll in the Seychelles.

The firm is working with exhibition designers Real Studios and environmental engineer Ritchie Daffin to build a visitor centre on nearby Mahe, providing an experience for one of the most unique coral reef ecosystems anywhere in the world.

The reef was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 and is one of the largest ring-shaped coral reefs in the world. It is also home to the largest population of giant tortoises anywhere in the world.

More than 150,000 giant tortoises call Aldabra home

Mark Barfield saw off competition from five other entrants: Wilkinson Eyre, WWT Consulting, Danny Forster Design Studio and a team from Zurich University. The centre will look to provide an experience of the remote Aldabra Atoll – comprised of four coral islands – outlining the history of the island and its reef for people unable to visit due to access difficulties.