Rio Bio-Park
Client: Cataratas Group
Summary: Set Designer, Project Manager, Architectural concept, Landscape design, Entertainment Industry (Zoo)
Year: Q4 2020
I was hired by the Cataratas Group, the largest operator of theme parks in Brazil, to do the animal habitat scenography for the conversion from the Rio Zoo to a more modern Bio Park. The goal of my work was to elevate the environmental experience and shift the viewing areas to something more immersive. My work resulted in a complete reimagining of the animal areas with avenues that allowed visitors to travel "through” the habitats in an intimate way without disruption.
I spent 2 months researching the local flora and fauna, animal behaviours and construction limitations. I identified the optimal design to maximize the interactions and regionalised the habitats to align with their specific topography. I presented all concepts for approval and then completed the project by overseeing the construction in partnership with the engineering team.
As I thought about how the flora would impact the layout for the project I conducted research with local botanists to determine which plants were optimal for the various animals. Each had a different environment with unique needs and structures that were familiar to their jungle homes. You can see on the right the breakdown for the monkey area. I collaborated with the trainers and veterinary staff to assure that the format of the wooden structures would be comfortable for their physical activities. The cables set above the pathway had to be at a certain height to assure they would not drop down into the viewing area, while also making it familiar to their natural habitats in the jungle where they spent most of their time at the top of the tree line.
Credits
Ana Lins
Architect: Set Designer ; Project Manager
Jéssica
Architect: Technical Drawing
Felipe Giublin
Engineer: Director of Construction