This final year project interprets the forthcoming extension to the zoo (Noorder Dierenpark) in the town of Emmen as a cause for compaction rather than for increasing its surface area as proposed. The decision to consolidate is our response to urban extensions in general. So as to avoid the well-trod paths we examined comparable complex structures that can be regarded as a metaphor for the city. A principal theme keeps this urban compaction under control, to wit, the theory of plate tectonics. The effect of this concept of moving 'plates' guides the extension and regeneration of Emmen Zoo. At the same time the plates represent the habitats of the species of animal and plant on site.

To clearly demonstrate the advantages of compaction we premised the design on a doubling of the zoo's surface area, and its elaboration on the basis of equal treatment for its elements. Each new 'increment' gets its own character and style by being designed by a different architect. With its main structure fixed, the zoo can evolve dynamically without it degenerating into a monoculture, or chaos. Branches reaching out from the main structure into the surrounding area encourage a greater interaction with the town.

Place of education: AvB Groningen
Specialization: architecture
Tutors: Chris Moller, Geert Hoving, Eric van der Kooij, Cees Dam, Arie Krijgsman, Robert van Herk & Ton Venhoeven