Malawi Event Center

About

Tuttle was the general contractor for the complete renovation of the open air Nairobi Pavilion into the new Malawi Event Center.  Tuttle was responsible for all the demolition of the exiting facilities that would not be remaining and the construction of the new event center. 

All new exterior and interior walls were constructed for the new reception space.  New insullation had to be installed on the existing metal roof. A new commercial kitchen was installed and all the existing concrete floors were polished and sealed for an industrial but classy look.  New mechancal and electrical systems were installed to provide year-round comfort of the space.

The centerpiece of this renovation is the 16,300 gallon salt water aquarium.  The tank was fabricated in California and shipped in two pieces for installation in the building.  Additinally, the aquarium support equipment is housed behind the aquarium and in front of the kitchen.  The aquarium provides an amazing backdrop to any event held in this space.

With the project taking place in the operating zoo facility, special attention had to be paid to construction processes and time.  All contractors on site had to be trained in “escaped aninmal protocal” in case an animal would have escaped their enclosure.  Noise and dust had to be kept to a minimum to ensure the animals in the zoo were not distirburbed and the zoo guests could enjoy their day.

Tuttle utilized our own semis and delivery trucks to deliver and haul a large part of the materials and equipment needed for the project. This included hauls of up to 2-hours round trip down interstate highways, as well as navigating the downtown city streets and limited facility access to access the jobsite.

Project Owner

Toledo Zoo & Aquarium

2 Hippo Way, Toledo, OH 43609

419-385-5721

Contact: Lonnie Ritter