Elefantenhaus

How can three shades of green tell a story? At the Elefantenhaus in Augsburg Zoo, they whisper tales of the forest. This remarkable structure, opened in 2020, isn’t just a home for elephants like Targa, one of the world’s oldest elephant cows. It’s a testament to thoughtful design and innovative architecture. The Elefantenhaus represents a 7.3 million euro investment, fueled by the generosity of donors and sponsors. This allowed the zoo to create a haven for Targa and three other female elephants. Imagine, 4,500 square meters of outdoor space, complete with a refreshing bathing pool. Inside, the Elefantenhaus boasts 1,500 square meters, a significant portion of which is dedicated to a crucial sand running area. This specialized flooring caters to the elephants’ specific needs, as outlined by the German Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Forestry. Architects Mikolajczyk Kessler Kirsten, experts in zoo design, brought this vision to life. Their signature method, honed over 29 years, blends robust reinforced concrete with a curved wooden roof. The facade of the Elefantenhaus is where the story of green unfolds. Where the elephants can’t reach, rough-sawn spruce wood, treated with KEIM Lignosil, creates a visual symphony. Three shades of green, applied with automatic painting machines, dance across 800 square meters. These aren’t just random colors. They are carefully chosen deciduous tones, echoing the Asian elephants’ forest origins. The architects envisioned a building that harmonized with the park’s natural beauty. The shimmering green facade achieves just that, creating a subtle backdrop against the majestic elephants. The Elefantenhaus is more than just a building. It’s a sanctuary, a work of art, and a story told in shades of green.