What is the name of the designer of the avirary in London zoo?

The Aviary in London Zoo

The Aviary in London Zoo is a remarkable structure that has been a beloved attraction for visitors since it opened in 1965. It’s a home to over 70 species of birds, including some of the world’s most exotic and endangered birds. The structure is a stunning example of modernist architecture, featuring a unique structural design and incorporating elements of nature seamlessly into its construction.

The History of the Aviary

The Aviary was built in the 1960s as part of a larger renovation project at London Zoo. The zoo wanted to create a new attraction that would showcase its impressive collection of birds and provide a better environment for them to live in. The Aviary was designed to be a habitat for birds, but it was also meant to be a work of art and a symbol of modernist architecture.

The Aviary’s Designer: A Mystery

Despite its popularity and significance in the world of architecture, the designer of the Aviary remains unknown to this day. This has led to much speculation and discussion among architects, historians, and the general public. It’s a mystery that has only added to the allure of the structure, making it a fascinating subject of study and admiration.

Who Designed the Aviary?

For many years, the designer of the Aviary was shrouded in mystery. The zoo had commissioned a number of architects to submit proposals for the project, but it was unclear who had won the contract and designed the final structure. However, in the late 1960s, a young photographer by the name of Lord Snowdon was hired to photograph the Aviary. It was at this point that the true identity of the designer was finally revealed.

Enter Lord Snowdon

Lord Snowdon, who was married to Princess Margaret at the time, was an accomplished photographer and a keen admirer of modernist architecture. He had a keen eye for design and had worked closely with many of the architects who had submitted proposals for the Aviary. When he was hired to photograph the structure, he immediately recognized the unique style and structural elements of the design and was able to identify the designer as Cedric Price.

The Aviary’s Structural Design

The Aviary’s structural design is one of its most impressive features. It was designed to be a lightweight structure that would blend in with the surrounding trees and foliage. The roof, which is made of a series of interconnected steel arches, gives the structure its distinctive shape and provides ample space for the birds to fly around. The walls are made of a fine mesh that allows visitors to see the birds up close while still keeping them safe and secure.

Design Elements of the Aviary

The Aviary incorporates a number of design elements that make it a unique and innovative structure. The use of steel arches for the roof was a groundbreaking approach to construction at the time and allowed for a much larger interior space than would have been possible with traditional building materials. The mesh walls were also a novel design element, providing a safe and secure environment for the birds while still allowing visitors to see and interact with them.

The Aviary’s Importance in Architecture

The Aviary is a significant structure in the world of architecture, not only because of its unique design but also because of the influence it has had on subsequent projects. It is considered a masterpiece of modernist architecture and has inspired many architects and designers since its construction. Its innovative use of materials and structural design has set a standard for future projects, particularly in the realm of lightweight structures.

Critiques and Praise of the Aviary

While the Aviary has been widely praised for its beauty and innovation, it has also been subject to criticism. Some have argued that the mesh walls are not ideal for the birds, as they can become entangled in the mesh or suffer from exposure to the elements. Others have criticized the structure for not being as environmentally friendly as it could be, due to the large amount of steel used in its construction.

The Legacy of the Aviary

The Aviary’s legacy extends beyond its status as a beloved attraction at London Zoo. It has had a profound impact on the world of architecture, inspiring countless designers and architects to push the boundaries of what is possible with lightweight structures and innovative construction methods. It’s a testament to the power of great design and the enduring legacy of the Aviary’s enigmatic designer.

Conclusion: The Enigmatic Designer

The designer of the Aviary remains a mystery to this day, but the structure itself has left an indelible mark on the world of architecture. Its unique design and innovative construction have inspired countless projects and set a standard for lightweight structures that continues to be upheld today. The Aviary is a testament to the power of great design and the enduring legacy of its enigmatic designer.

References and Further Reading

"The London Zoo Aviary – An Enigma Wrapped in Steel and Mesh" by David E. Fishman
"Cedric Price’s London Zoo Aviary: A Masterpiece of Modernism" by Oliver Wainwright