The Royal Melbourne Zoological Gardens Parkville opened in 1862 and is the oldest Zoo in Australia. The water recycling project was implemented to resolve a long term waste water discharge problem as well as improve water conservation practices. The recycled water is reticulated throughout the Zoo for use in ponds, animal hose down areas and for landscape irrigation as part of a water management program. An interactive “water discovery exhibit” weaves its way throughout the Zoo, culminating in the water recycling plant building at the northern end of the site. The water recycling plant building has been designed to be experienced as a working exhibit. The building is a compact 12 metre square translucent cube set in an open landscape accessed via a public viewing platform. Placing the large water storage tanks underground has reduced the impact of the plant since they are buried into the landform with grassed roofs. A large picture window allows visitors to view the operation of the plant, which forms part of the interpretive display. At night the building glows like a shimmering lantern revealing the skeletal silhouette of the working interior.