Master Planning of Zoos - Central Zoo Authority

Proceedings of
Training Programme
Master Planning
of Zoos
Immersion Exhibit: A shortened form of landscape immersion. This term could
also apply to exhibits in cultural, agricultural or other settings as well as natural
landscapes.
Naturalistic: “In accordance with or in imitation of nature” (Webster Dictionary).
The terms “naturalistic” and “immersion” are used interchangeably in general
conversation about zoo exhibits. However as designers we apply these terms
differently and find confusion over specific meanings can lead to
misunderstanding.
Examples could include: “life with elephants in an Asian village” (Melbourne
Zoo); “visit to a remote greater one-horned rhinoceros rescue centre” (proposed
for Woodland Park Zoo); or “visit to a gorilla research camp in West Africa”
(Zoo Atlanta).
Scenario: the outline for a proposed natural or cultural setting which carries
out the intended theme; setting the scene.
Examples include providing of charred logs, exposed permafrost and fast-moving
braided streams, all to suggest the effects of fire, frost and flood in shaping the
boreal landscape and provide the setting for encountering indigenous wildlife.
Storyline: the narrative or pictorial sequence of active events or experiences
envisioned in a themed setting.
Storylines and storyboards, annotated sequential illustrations or computer
generated simulated walk-throughs, were long used in the motion picture
industry and are now used in zoo design to visualize the intended visitor
experience in detail.
Sustainable: The United Nations World Commission on Environment and
Development’s definition in 1987 suggests that development is sustainable
where it “meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability
of future generations to meet their own needs.”
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