The Buildings of London Zoo

This volume is an account of the architecture contained within London Zoo. Based on a survey carried out in 1992, when the Zoo faced closure, this book includes detailed descriptions of all the buildings, monuments and other structures of the Zoo, accompanied by photographs. Structures of note include Tecton's Penguin Pool of 1934, an example of early modernism; the Northern (Snowdon) Aviary of 1962-4 and the Elephant and Rhino Pavillion of 1962-5. Less well known is the pioneering use of concrete in the Mappin Terraces of 1913 and some of the interesting interiors which are described and illustrated in detail. This book also contains an introduction to the Zoo's development and the issues raised by its architecture. Throughout its history the Zoo's buildings have reflected the twin demands of animal preservation and animal display, making them a barometer of changing perceptions of animals and their welfare.