Lubetkin Penguin Pool

The original London Zoo penguin pool was designed by Berthold Lubetkin and Tecton architects in 1934 and is a listed building, as it has special architectural significance. Based on an egg shape, the enclosure has two spirally intertwining ramps, apparently inspired by plane propellers.

Lubetkin envisaged the enclosure as a stage set. The curved white walls are designed to echo penguin calls. The blue pool has gentle sloping access. Part of the enclosure is shaded, and there was once a diving tank for underwater viewing.

It underwent restoration in 1987 and is now a water feature. (The penguins have moved to a larger, more natural habitat in Barclay Court near the Oasis Café.)

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