ZOO Brno - Pavilion Tropické Království (Tropical Kingdom)

Project idea

The goal of the studio project is to design a new pavilion named Tropické království, which will become part of the zoo and expand the existing exhibition with environments inspired by tropical regions. The aim is to create an attractive and functional space that offers visitors a comprehensive experience of tropical nature while also ensuring appropriate conditions for housing exotic animals and plants. The design addresses not only the exhibition area itself, but also staff facilities, technical operations, educational features, and interactive elements. An important aspect is also the outdoor landscaping in front of the pavilion, which should enhance the connection with the overall zoo grounds and link with surrounding exhibits, especially the existing Terrarium building.

Project description

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

The Tropické království pavilion is designed as a simple, nearly square-shaped volume with a central open space that serves as the heart of the pavilion — the Tropical Forest exhibition. At the center of this exhibition lies a pond, which provides a natural oasis for the animals and acts as the visual focal point of the space.

The architectural concept draws inspiration from traditional Amazonian stilt houses. The main building volume is visually elevated above the ground on reinforced concrete columns, referencing the design of raised houses that protect against flooding. These columns are cast using wooden formwork, giving them a wood-like texture that strengthens the connection to indigenous cultural traditions. The structural frame is hidden behind a vertically profiled facade made of corrugated steel painted in a monochromatic black. This simple material evokes the texture of stacked wood, typical for traditional indigenous architecture.

The building’s silhouette resembles traditional houses with a distinctive pitched roof. The spatial layout is rationally planned — individual thematic zones (such as cloud forest, savanna, tropical forest, etc.) are connected by a clear visitor path. The program also includes an educational trail, support facilities, and a café. The clean form and strong concept create a distinctive, easily recognizable landmark within the landscape.

URBAN DESIGN

The pavilion Tropické království is designed as a standalone structure located at the edge of the zoo, on elevated terrain away from the main visitor circulation. Due to its greater distance from central exhibits, a connection via a visitor train is proposed, including facilities for its turnaround and the safe movement of passengers.

The new building replaces the existing Terrarium structure. Thanks to its newly gained appeal, the pavilion can serve not only as part of the zoo but also as an independent excursion destination. Its proximity to the adjacent reservoir increases its visitor potential and contributes to the overall significance of the area for leisure activities for both residents and tourists.

SPATIAL LAYOUT

The layout of the pavilion is based on a central composition, with the main tropical forest exhibition forming the core of the building. This central space is surrounded by additional thematic zones that seamlessly connect to it, creating a continuous and immersive experience. The visitor route is designed as a loop that naturally guides guests through all areas of the pavilion without the need to backtrack. An important goal of the design was also to logically separate staff-only areas to ensure smooth daily operations and efficient management by the zoo personnel.

Technical information

The structural system combines reinforced concrete foundations, footings, and columns with a steel frame in the above-ground part. The steel structure is exposed on the exterior, while indoors it is protected by cement-fiber boards with fire-resistant properties. The gallery is supported by reinforced concrete columns formed with wooden formwork. The facade is made of corrugated steel painted black. The materials used often play with the contrast between natural and industrial elements.

Documentation

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