London zoo penguin pool, 1934 - Present

REINFORCED MODERN RUNWAY

The London zoo’s penguin pool was redesigned in 1934 by architect Berthold Lubetkin and engineer Ove Arup. This project is iconic as it was one of the first to express the vast structural potential of reinforced concrete. “The Penguin Pool at London Zoo 1934, designed by Berthold Lubetkin & Tecton is one of the iconic landmarks of modern architecture”. It was an icon for British modernist architecture. The project was a success as it was functioned as a shelter for animals, a sculpture and a impressive breakthrough in concrete. “ The Penguin Pool, visited and admired by thousands over the 75 years since its completion, also stands as a poignant emblem of the dreams and disappointments of modern architecture”. The use of concrete was like none other in the world. This project was part of the beginning of the modern movement. This project gave the world a taste of the many great things that are possible. The pool has nesting boxes around the perimeter , a elliptical pool with a glass front diving tank. “This tiny aquatic sculpture—it could hardly be called a building—has captivated who see it, and through its worldwide publication, many who have not. Apparently so simple, yet like so much of Lubetkin's work, the Penguin Pool is densely coded with stories, references and ultimately—dreams”. The pool has two reinforced concrete slabs which wraps around each other and connects the pool underneath to the platform on top. The design was influenced by the Behavior of penguins. “Its zoological advantages were also acclaimed, at least initially. The first occupants apparently thrived and bred successfully”. The design was an attempt to mimic the natural habitat of the penguins and also build a stage where guest can see the penguins. The design had the intention of wanting the penguins to act normal and comfortable in the space.The defining feature of the habitat is the thin spiraling walkways that the penguins use to move in and out of the water. The spirals seem to be floating but is however connected to hidden columns. The walkway creates a stage for the penguins where they can display themselves and also jump into the water. The shape of the walkway helped awe the audience as it was a free form hovering piece of reinforced concrete. The architect and engineer took a material commonly used to make heavy , boxed things and created a hovering walkway that supported the weight of the penguins. Arup the engineer was very much interested in reinforced concrete and its many possibilities. He wanted to show off his research in this project and show that reinforced concrete has more potential than what its being used for. He showed that the best use of reinforced concrete is to create slabs or tiles rather than beams or columns. He argued that if the concrete was casted as one piece it was possible to create any shape.The thinness of the concrete slabs was achieved through placing reinforcements inside. The shape and support allowed for the complex final form. The design brought fame to the architect and engineer which allowed them to continue working towards pushing the limits of reinforced concrete.

Sources:

https://www.vam.ac.uk/articles/engineering-the-penguin-pool-at-london-zoo#vam_nav

Bridge of dreams: The penguin pool, London zoo by John Allan