A revolution in the construction of exhibits for zoological institutions has taken place in the latter half of the twentieth century. Animal exhibits have become natural replications of habitats found in nature, rather than traditional, architectural containment enclosures. New construction techniques and new methods of fabricating realistic models of natural elements have developed a new industry wherein naturalistic construction is a specialty.
Cemrock Landscapes, Inc., based in Tucson, Arizona, is a leader in the naturalistic construction of synthetic habitats. Cemrock has constructed habitat projects in numerous zoos and public aquariums in North America. Habitat construction has also extended into the theme park industry, where the creation of immersive, naturalistic environments is enhancing the visitor experience in entertainment and amusement venues.
Creating naturalistic habitats requires the use of specialized construction methods that are dependent on artistic ability as well as traditional construction techniques. Crucial products for the construction of synthetic habitats include artificial rockwork, fabricated trees and plants, naturalistic painting, and sophisticated aquatic plumbing and water quality systems. The design of these habitats requires an understanding of natural forms and the best available methods for replicating them within a limited space.
Cemrock artists have extensive experience in the production of habitat elements. Artificial trees, plants and even coral reefs are produced at a central fabrication plant using steel, concrete, fiberglass, epoxy resin, polymer plastics and composite materials. Habitat elements are shipped and installed at construction sites, where other more extensive habitat construction may take place, such as the creation of artificial rock formations and natural-looking pools and water features. The diverse products are blended seamlessly and realistically. They interface with other naturalistic features such as natural plants and soils, and with functional architectural construction for animal containment or husbandry, sanitation, lighting, plumbing and back-of-house animal care buildings.
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