Zoomorphism

Abstract

The exploration manifests in the idea of coexistence where indigenous animals, nature and people could live in harmony. The dissertation questions the ethical aspects of a Zoo and the relationship between man and nature. The Apies river which created the unique grid pattern we see in Pretoria today forms part of the context for the ascribed proposal. This historical landmark has seen significant change over the past century, once acting as life source to animals and humans alike, it now seems forgotten and channelized with the city’s back turned towards it. This study investigates how Architecture could facilitate and mediate the relationship between the city and nature as well as the relationship between people and nature. Through a methodological approach the study will aim to determine a set of strategies to contest the current traditional Noah’s Ark approach to zoo making. Theory, case studies and current contested zoological design principals aim to ground the strategies and seek to establish a contrast on current and future zoos. The focus shifts form Zoo as mere observational platform towards that of enlightened coexistence, emphasizing the importance of each link within the chain of life (Hancocks, 2001,p.27). These hypothetical strategies will guide the formation of new contextual zoos that are tailored to the environment they reside in. Rather, a contributor to the environment, an ecological restoration of sorts instead of a showcase, providing research and scientific opportunity that fits the environment and potentially lending its hand to collaborate virtually with other contextually based zoos around the world.