Reg.Nr. 2000/HU/01

Restoration and reconstruction of the Elephant House, Budapest

The Elephant House was built between 1909 and 1912, when the Budapest Zoo was totally reconstructed. Neuschloss' building is an important example of Hungarian Art Nouveau architecture, and the Elephant House represents a special secessionist interpretation of the orient. The four ...
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Project details

Title:Restoration and reconstruction of the Elephant House, Budapest
Entr. year: 2000
Result:Medal
Country: Hungary
Town: Budapest
Category type: architectural heritage
Notes:Zoo design
Building type/ Project type: Special building
Former use:Elephant enclosure
Actual use:Elephant enclosure
Built: 1909-1912
Architect / Proj.leader: Katalin Kugler - Anthony Fall, Architects (Budapest - HU)
The Jury's citation: "For the sensitive and precise restoration of a remarkable example of Hungarian Art Nouveau architecture, based on extensive scientific research, together with the thoughtful reconstruction of the tower demolished in 1915"
GPS:47°31'5.2"N; 19°4'39.3"E
Web, Links:

www.zoobudapest.com

Description:
The Elephant House was built between 1909 and 1912, when the Budapest Zoo was totally reconstructed. Neuschloss' building is an important example of Hungarian Art Nouveau architecture, and the Elephant House represents a special secessionist interpretation of the orient. The four major areas of the project were: restoration of the exterior of the building and the existing fabric, reconstruction of the interior hall (the lost decorative surfaces and elements), reconstruction of the tower demolished in 1915 and modernisation and improvement of the animal-keeping. The renovated Elephant House was re-opened in March 1999.