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In an effort to conserve the endangered orangutan species, Toronto Zoo has recently opened an outdoor habitat for Sumatran orangutans, which has been designed to emulate their natural abode to provide an immersive experience for both the animals and visitors.
The exhibit, “Orangutans of Gunung Leuser, Guardians of the Rainforest,” represents a significant departure from the traditional indoor habitats, marking the first outdoor habitat for Sumatran orangutans at the Toronto Zoo since its establishment in 1974.
The habitat, a result of Zeidler Architecture’s partnership with Jones & Jones Architects + Landscape Architects, reflects a commitment to conservation and education. The design draws inspiration from the landscapes of Sumatra, where most orangutans reside, featuring imaginative structures mimicking tree canopies and strategic layouts aligning with the orangutans’ natural movements.
Comprising two outdoor areas, Habitat 1 and Habitat 2, seamlessly integrated with an existing indoor habitat in the Indo-Malaya Pavilion, the design extends the living space for the orangutans. Habitat 1 covers an area of 1,207 m2 (13,000 sf), incorporating climbing structures, hills, streams, and towers, providing diverse vantage points for visitor interaction and observation.
Upon exiting the pavilion, visitors can catch a glimpse of the animals through large, elongated, and glazed windows installed at an angle to limit reflection. The design ensures a balance between entertainment and education, with a research station enabling visitors to observe behavioural scientists studying the orangutans and promoting sustainable practices for habitat conservation.
The habitat’s design respects the orangutans’ tree-dwelling nature, incorporating climbing poles, platforms, cables, and chute access throughout Habitat 1. This aerial experience continues into Habitat 2, with a dramatic 45-m (150-ft) span between two climbing structures starting near the existing Malayan Woods Pavilion entrance to the current white rhino exhibit.
Elevated walkways and platforms offer multiple vantage points for visitors, fostering a sense of discovery as they navigate the space. A treehouse at the highest point allows guests to be eye-to-eye with the orangutans at adjacent climbing poles.
Acknowledging the orangutans’ curiosity, the design includes interactive elements, such as a ground-level viewing spot where an orangutan can playfully spray water at visitors. In addition, a play area has been created to mimic the natural habitat, providing an authentic experience for both children and adults.
“We are thrilled to have been part of a project that creates an experience that is both valuable for the animals and the visitors,” says Mario Campos, principal, Jones & Jones Architects + Landscape Architects. “This habitat will encourage visitors of the Toronto Zoo to be curious about the Sumatran orangutans, their conservation story, and the importance of design work in fostering an enriched life for these animals. We’re proud to be part of the team that brought this design vision to life.”
