On April 20, 2013, the internationally-renowned theme park Samsung Everland opened its gates to celebrate the world premiere of the Lost Valley. Over two-years in planning, this unique environment was created by the Berlin-based design agency dan pearlman. Designed down to the last detail, the planning encompassed architecture, landscape architecture, various modes of transport, as well as signage and communication. Here, a unique experience has been created that is unrivalled anywhere else in the world. By telling a distinctive story, dan pearlman has produced an experience with true value—one that captivates and enriches visitors personally and which they will not soon forget. The legend of the Lost Valley, as a narrative framework and philosophy, not only entertains but educates visitors to this world first in safari attractions.
Vision and Goals
The idea was to design the 63,000 square meter area as an ancient place, full of nature and true-to-life animal habitats. Although conceived as a whole, it was divided into various types of landscapes in order to offer visitors a range of experiences as they explore the Lost Valley. Thus, a primary goal was to create a story set within the landscape while also creating a maximum amount of space for the animals (and visitors) by positioning all architectural elements on the periphery. In addition to creating an once-in-a-lifetime experience for visitors, the park’s goal is to increase attendance numbers from 7.5 to 10 million visitors within the next five to seven years.
Characters & Creation
During the visitor tour, protagonists recount the story of Lost Valley. Humans and animals once lived in harmony for a long time. But man’s desires began to grow and he starting hunting animals like Jum and Tao, who were subsequently forced to escape to the Lost Valley. In the end, man finally understood the consequences of his actions and learned to coexist peacefully within this place, which has been here since the dawn of time. These days, Tao, the white lion, and Jum, the elephant, are still guardians of the Valley and provide an entry point for children to understand and relate to the overall idea behind the legend.
Philosophy
The aim of the Lost Valley is not only to entertain but to educate visitors in a lasting way. The Wildlife Watch Team scouts form a relationship with visitors by interacting with them personally and providing them at the start of the tour with a password that will be needed later on to enter a certain part of the Valley. The Lost Valley’s overall concept has a long-lasting effect on visitors and inspires a sense of responsibility for the environment as well as the animals and their habitats, even after leaving the Samsung Everland Resort. Consequently, people relate to the story of Jum and Tao and take home love and respect for the environment and its inhabitants.