Chimps Breeding Colony The Gorilla House

The Gorilla House, also known as the Chimps Breeding Colony, is a Grade I listed building located in the Zoological Gardens of Regent's Park, London. Designed by Lubetkin and Tecton with Ove Arup, it was constructed between 1932 and 1933 and marks their first significant commission as well as their first zoo building for the Zoological Society.

The structure is made of reinforced 4-inch concrete, steel cage bars, light insulated panels, and features a flat asphalted roof. Its circular design includes a drum shape, with an open cage occupying half of the circle and a permanent cage with clerestory light in the other half. The entrance and exit are integrated into the overall composition with sweeping wings.

In winter, a revolving insulated screen closes off the open cage, providing a sheltered viewing area for the public while allowing for climate control. This screen can be adjusted with sliding glass windows in the dividing wall and air conditioning that simulates conditions found in the Congo. The revolving insulated panel, which is stored in the permanent half of the drum during summer, pivots on ball bearings within a solid steel column and is supported by rollers that move along a steel channel at the upper edge.

The permanent cage features a small basin and fountain. This building is recognized as a seminal example of the Modern Movement in Britain and represents the first practical application of the Tecton research approach, resulting in a design that emphasizes a dynamic compositional rhythm while addressing functional needs.