Wilhelma Zoo Stuttgart – Enclosure for African Apes
Structural Designer
Weischede, Herrmann und Partner
Client Name
Vermögen und Bau Baden-Württemberg, Amt Stuttgart
Location
Stuttgart, Germany
Images: © Svenja-Bockhop / officium design engineering
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The internal accommodation of the new enclosure for African apes takes the form of an artificial ridge. This reinforced concrete spine building follows and S-shape on plan between groves of trees integrated into the zoo landscaping: with its thermal mass contributing passively to the internal climate control. Its solidity sits in contrast to the lightweight stainless steel mesh of the 2200m2 external bonobo enclosure supported on 13 pylons which also serve as climbing frames for the apes.
Judge's comment:
The use and expression of the structural materials to create variety in the enclosure and spaces, has been executed with great skill across and extensive undulating forms that transition into the landscape.