Why not slap an engine into this monstrosity and blast visitors into outer space? Then San Diego's infamous "utilitrees" could be joined in space by this hunk of junk. In all fairness it was probably cutting edge at the time, and it would surely make a great historical museum for the zoo.
snowleopard, a great observation, they should pass out Tang to visitors as they enter the new exhibit about the history of Sputnik before they enter the weightlessness chamber!
If they eally wanted to make good use of this exhibit, they could renovate it to make that tall center area a jungle home for gibbons. If they added trees and such, I think this could have much potential and the arboreal space would be interesting
@Maguari: I like the old carnivore house at the Toledo Zoo in the State of Ohio, as that large building is now a cafeteria/restaurant. I even sat and ate in one of the old cages! Also, I'm all for keeping outdated yet bizarre-looking architectural marvels as either gift shops, museums, cafes, etc...anything but for captive animals. On the other hand, sometimes massive concrete behemoths that used to be regarded as brilliant simply look out of place in the modern zoo world. I've seen plenty of photos of the Casson Pavilion at the London Zoo, and that is almost as ugly as the former great ape house in this photo.
Speaking personally, I like things that look out of place from time to time! One of my reservations about the the modern 'zoogeographic, immersive' style is that I'm worried there's a tendency for everywhere to start looking the same.
I'm surprised to hear the building currently under discussion described as 'ugly' - it's rather a nice piece of architecture to my mind. How would you feel if they used the central 'column' as a butterfly flight area (understanding I have no idea of the logistics of this)? Would make use of it as an animal building in an interesting way without putting large animals into it.
I too have no idea of the logistics of the building, as the size is difficult to determine without actually visiting the establishment. However, a butterfly zone or small bird aviary would not be out of place here.
Speaking personally, I like things that look out of place from time to time! One of my reservations about the the modern 'zoogeographic, immersive' style is that I'm worried there's a tendency for everywhere to start looking the same.
