Vertical Safari / Influx_Studio

general view

The aim of Influx_Studio was to create a unique zoo experience that would implement a new urban function and redefine the typical layout for wildlife sightseeing for its visitors. Through their dynamic, vertical attraction in Buenos Aires, Argentina, a new kind of building is conceived with hopes of inspiring other architects around the globe as well as increasing awareness to the diversity of ecosystems. More images and architect’s description after the break.

aerial view

We propose that the whole zoo experience be inspired by the aim of modern Safaris. A trip taken for observes and photograph wildlife where visitors can drive their own vehicles and observe animals free, rather than viewing them in cages or small enclosures. We suggest the redefinition of zoo’s archetype with a new urban function that adds an unexpected bonus to the vertical zoo demanded by the competition’s guidelines: an observation wheel to create a dramatic and surprising city sightseeing safari over Buenos Aires’s skyline!

Courtesy of Influx Studio

The wheel injected to the Safari Zoo, will provide a new metropolitan dimension to the Reserve waterfront park, attracting an additional mass of visitors; as well it will reinforce the Reserve’s recreational and leisure vocation. Located in the projection of the visual axe joining the Reserve area to the Obelisk, From there, the zoo, rising 240 meters high, it will create a new visual appeal landmark beyond Puerto Madero’s docks (actually the view is blocked by the docks).

Courtesy of Influx Studio

Turning very slowly the observation wheel takes 30 minutes to complete a half circuit. Arrived to the top of the circuit, visitors can make a pause and enjoy sightseeing options at the visitor’s facilities level. It holds the educational program and the cafeteria, gift and souvenirs shop etc. That level is suspended into the void of the master volume above the wheel providing various dramatics and unexpected view sights to visitors.

Courtesy of Influx Studio

Our proposal for the Buenos Aires Vertical Zoo is conceived as a new kind of building, issue of several trends, and inspired by worldwide architectural icons. It can be defined as a hybrid that merges the skyscraper, the zoo, and the Ferry’s Wheel into one ecological urban new iconic landmark, encouraging visitors to take action benefitting wildlife and ecosystems.

Architects: INFLUX_STUDIO
Location: La Reserva, Puerto Madero, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Client: ARQUITECTUM
Site Area: 95,000 sqm
Project Area: 5,000 sqm
Project Year: 2009-2010