Orientation to Zoo Design
This specialised course is crafted for landscape designers and architects seeking to expand their expertise into the unique and evolving field of zoological design. It focuses on creating immersive, functional, and welfare-driven environments that balance animal needs, ecological integrity, and visitor experience. Participants will explore advanced concepts in habitat planning, enclosure design, behavioural enrichment, circulation systems, and sustainable landscape strategies—aligned with global standards in modern zoo design. This course bridges architecture, landscape, and conservation—empowering designers to create spaces that are not only visually compelling but also ethically and ecologically responsible for animal care and management.
Course Curriculum
Introduction to Zoo Design Profession
Zoo design is a multidisciplinary profession that combines animal welfare, architecture, landscape design, engineering, conservation, and visitor experience to create safe, functional, and species-appropriate environments.
Animal Biology for Designers
Understanding animal anatomy, behaviour, habitat needs, and natural adaptations to create safe, functional, and species-appropriate environments.
Zoo Master Planning & Policy
Understanding the strategic planning, spatial organization, regulations, policies, and operational requirements that guide the sustainable development and management of a zoo.
Field Work Practicum
Hands-on application of zoo design principles through site observation, field studies, animal habitat assessment, and practical design exercises.
Enclosure Design Specialisations
Specialized design of species-specific enclosures that balance animal welfare, natural behaviour, safety, husbandry needs, and visitor experience.
Habitat Simulation & Landscape
Designing naturalistic landscapes that replicate species-specific habitats while supporting animal welfare, natural behaviour, and environmental sustainability.
Structures, Materials & Safety
Understanding appropriate structural systems, materials, barriers, and safety standards to create secure, durable, and animal-friendly zoo environments.
Water Systems & LSS, MEP & Environmental Controls
Understanding water and life-support systems (LSS), MEP services, and environmental controls to maintain safe, stable, and species-appropriate habitat conditions.
Visitor Experience & Interpretation
Designing engaging visitor journeys and interpretive experiences that connect people with animals, habitats, conservation, and education.
Digital Tools for Zoo Architects
Using digital tools such as CAD, BIM, 3D modelling, GIS, and visualization to plan, design, simulate, and communicate zoo environments effectively.
Final Studio – On a specific zoo design project
Applying acquired knowledge and design principles to develop a comprehensive, practical zoo design project from concept to final proposal.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Develop species-specific habitat designs based on animal behaviour and welfare principles
- Integrate landscape architecture with ecological and conservation goals
- Plan spatial layouts that Optimise visitor flow and engagement
- Apply sustainable and climate-responsive design approaches in zoological settings
- Interpret and implement zoo design standards and regulatory frameworks
- Create immersive, naturalistic environments that enhance both animal well-being and public education