The Dudley Zoo Bird House, also known as the Tropical Bird House, is a remarkable structure located within the grounds of Dudley Zoo in the West Midlands region of England. Designed by the renowned Tecton Group of Architects, led by the Russian Architect Berthold Lubetkin, this Art Deco building is a testament to the innovative architectural style of the 1930s.
The Architectural Design of the Dudley Zoo Bird House
The Dudley Zoo Bird House was initially constructed to house semi-tropical birds, such as parrots, featuring a heated indoor house and an external balcony for outdoor bird display during the summer months. The two-story building, resembling a belvedere, was strategically situated on a steep, east-facing site, offering visitors stunning views over the wooded slopes to the north.
The building’s design is particularly noteworthy for its engineering and spatial qualities. The reinforced concrete roof, in the form of a partial inverted flat cone, is carried on plain columns and is structurally separate from the circular external wall. The two elements are united only by the double-glazed roof light, which bridges the gap in an unbroken circle, creating a seamless and visually striking appearance.
The Tecton Group’s Architectural Vision
The Dudley Zoo Bird House is part of a collection of twelve Tecton structures within the Dudley Zoo, all of which were designed to present a more modern and cleaner way of life during the Depression-hit West Midlands. The Tecton Group, led by Berthold Lubetkin, was known for their innovative and forward-thinking approach to architecture, which aimed to improve the quality of life for the local community.
The Tropical Bird House Today
Unfortunately, the Dudley Zoo Bird House is no longer used for its original purpose, and the paddock beneath now houses Asiatic lions. However, the building remains an important part of the zoo’s history and a significant example of the Tecton Group’s architectural legacy.
Visiting the Dudley Zoo Bird House
Dudley Zoo and Castle is owned and operated by Dudley and West Midlands Zoological Society Limited, a registered charity. The zoo’s website provides information on visiting the Dudley Zoo Bird House and other attractions within the zoo.
Adopt an Animal at Dudley Zoo
For those interested in supporting the zoo, the ‘Adopt an Animal’ program offers the opportunity to adopt birds and other animals. The selection of birds available for adoption includes the penguin, pink flamingo, and red-fronted macaw.
| Animal | Adoption Cost |
|---|---|
| Penguin | £40 |
| Pink Flamingo | £45 |
| Red-fronted Macaw | £50 |
Adoptions take approximately 7 working days to process, and the adoption package includes a certificate, fact sheet, and a soft toy of the adopted animal.
Conclusion
The Dudley Zoo Bird House is a remarkable example of the Tecton Group’s architectural vision, showcasing the innovative design and engineering principles of the 1930s. Although the building no longer serves its original purpose, it remains an important part of Dudley Zoo’s history and a must-see attraction for those interested in architectural history and the evolution of zoos.