In the new mixed-species enclosure, architecture, landscape architecture, and educational elements are holistically integrated. We invite guests to become part of the recreated habitat of the animals so that, through spatial and emotional proximity, they are effectively reached by the important educational messages about species conservation.
Behavioral and Environmental Enrichment
In the Berlin Zoo, a naturalistic swamp landscape covering approximately 14,000 square meters has been created, featuring numerous bathing pools, waterfalls, showers, and mud wallows, all designed to mimic the natural habitat of the animals.
The more than 2,000 square meter building meets the high standards of modern animal husbandry. Indian rhinoceroses, in particular, which move on soft, swampy ground in their natural habitat, require special flooring for their sensitive feet. Therefore, special attention was given to using particularly soft materials in both the indoor and outdoor areas.
Since Indian rhinoceroses spend a lot of time in the water, a naturalistic rhino wellness landscape covering around 5,000 square meters is available to the four animals. This area includes five bathing pools, three mud wallows, and showers for their enrichment, skincare, and cooling.
The other residents of this shared habitat also provide variety for all senses: Seven Visayan warty pigs share the home with the four rhinoceroses but can retreat to their exclusive pig lounge whenever they need a break from interacting with the massive giants. The pampering program for the pachyderms is rounded off with deadwood trees and trunks, which can be used as self-service massage stations at any time.
Groundwork
600 cubic meters of earth excavation; 14 bored piles with lengths between 12 and 14 meters; no floor slab in the interior areas for better foot health.
Water Basins
8 in total; water depths range from 1.20 meters (for rhinos) to 1.50 meters (for tapirs).
Tower
The 25-meter-high tower weighs 400 tons and consists of a plug-in system made up of 68 stacked elements across 18 levels.
Underwater Glass
The world’s first 9-meter-long underwater glass pane for rhinos, 70 mm thick, made up of up to 5 layers. A total of 460 square meters of laminated safety glass was used.
Roof Area
The roof of the enclosure covers approximately 2,050 square meters, with about 300 square meters featuring intensive green roofing. Solar thermal systems for hot water are installed on the roof.
ETFE Roof
A circular ETFE roof with a span of 37 meters is stretched over a steel structure, using 2 tons of light-transmitting foil, allowing for natural daylight use.
Red Concrete
The red coloring of the tower resembles the Agra sandstone from the rhinos’ native region in northern India. Specially developed ornaments inspired by the lotus flower serve as a recurring, unifying design element.
Art
The building is complemented by public art: Directly in front of the entrance to the Rhino Pagoda is the artwork ”Ein Horn” (”A Horn”) by the French artist Adrien Missika, who won a design competition with his concept.
Significance for Berlin
This new landmark for the Berlin Zoo fits seamlessly into the historic ensemble of Germany’s oldest zoo, with the striking tower catching the eye of passersby from afar. Its exterior is meant to draw attention, while its interior encourages reflection. The Berlin Zoo has been an institution in the city for nearly two centuries. It plays a crucial role in environmental education, species conservation, and research, while also being a significant contributor to tourism and the economic development of Berlin. The Rhino Pagoda further enhances the already renowned Berlin Zoo’s appeal, especially for tourists from beyond the region.
Partners
Kieran Stanley, CEO & Creative Director, dan pearlman
Anna Buttkus, Senior Project Manager, dan pearlman
Lorna Brown, Architect, dan pearlman
- dan pearlman Erlebnisarchitektur GmbH
- emproc Bauprojektmanagement GmbH & Co. KG
- BNB GmbH
- Büro b.i.g GmbH
- Glass Ingenieurbau Leipzig GmbH
- Metallbau Ott
Top image RhinoPagoda (c)BNB.