Zoos and sustainable/traditional architecture

[Shirokuma]

At Whipsnade a while ago I was thinking about country zoos and architecture.

Obviously their settings don't lend themselves to grand architectural statements but I was thinking that it would be interesting if a collection used traditional rural architecture and sustainable new techniques from around Britian, not quite like Skansen or an open museum but rather using traditional wooden buildings, thatched roofs, green and turf roofs etc for animal and visitor buildings.

I think it could even be used as an economic stimulus, teaching unemployed young people skills in carpentry and wattling and other traditional crafts and showcasing local talent.

It would also be aesthetically attractive in my view.

 

[kiang]

Looking at maguari's pictures uploaded today, the WWT reserve at Barnes could be as close as we come to this type of architecture and exhibitry and quite beautiful it is too, the irony being the kind of rural style in the heart of our nation's capital.

London Wetland Centre WWT Gallery

 

[Shirokuma]

Yes, I think Martin Mere has this kind of architecture too although I haven't been there since I was a kid. Maybe other WWT facilities are like that too.