Aaron Eckert & Gerrit Sauer

Zoo in Dubai

The role of today’s zoo has evolved, placing conservation and preservation of endangered species in the forefront, a trend that will continue in the future. By creating an environment in which man and animal coexist, zoos are in the position of being able to simultaneously educate visitors and raise awareness of their situations. Because zoos are financially dependent upon monetary support from visitors, it is imperative that they offer a unique and exciting experience to attract them. Also creating a forum for education and communication while also providing a fun and exciting environment for visitors.

Concept:
The typical flower pot was originally devised by Arabic nomads who used them to transport their gardens on their long travels. These simple ceramic pots allowed them to safely carry their world along with them, knowing their plants would remain safe and damp. In this vein, the proposal creates four separate worlds directly on the grounds of Dubai, taking the conservation mission of zoos as a starting point. These four worlds are mirroring the differing habitat requirements of the various species, including wet savannah, dry savannah, desert, and Red Sea. Between these worlds, lies a communication and event level that connects them and allows passage between them. Covering these worlds, is a roof that creates shade while simultaneously serving the purpose of administration and catering as well as providing a venue for further approved functions. Visitors are able to maneuver the landscapes around the four animal worlds using bridges and walkways along the borders that create various unique vantage points for visitors and offer intimate glimpses into the animals lives housed within these worlds. In order to heighten the experience, the animals will be lured toward the more opportune viewing areas. However, the conservation and safety of the animals remain the ultimate goal and they will be able to retreat toward the middle, more private, areas of their world at any time.

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