According to the brief the building was to host a variety of animals, each with various different needs. The ARC is a collective of rooms serving varied purposes, from an animal wet room to stables to staff facilities for 24 hour care. The floor plan centered around the large courtyard, which is flanked by two mirrored roof overhangs. The function of the courtyard is to bring sunlight into the building whilst also assisting with natural ventilation, both extremely important in a building of this nature. It also acts as a protected enclosure providing shelter for the animals.