Roxan Burley is currently studying Spatial Design at the University of Plymouth and her latest project is a rather intriguing one: a Vertical Zoo.

The zoo has been envisaged as part of a redevelopment scheme in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to be located on an ecological reserve. Burley's design projects the animals enclosed within as the main users of the space, with each animal container tailored specifically each species' needs .

To view the animals, the visitors are caged in lifts which go straight through the animal’s habitat, allowing views whilst evading their space.

What M.E. finds particularly interesting about the design concept (other than the bold skyscraper architecture of course!) is the choice of materials for the different sections - the areas for people are constructed from rusted metal and concrete, which could evoke the feeling of detachment or loneliness.

In contrast, the animal containers are made from natural materials and glass - essentially turning the tables on a traditional zoo concept where the animals are the captives...