‘The Gherkin’ to become ‘The Penguin’
Thursday 12 July 2012
ZSL London Zoo reveals audacious summer plans
© ZSL
Plans to transform the City’s iconic Gherkin building to ‘The Penguin’ could see a giant bird towering over Londoners this summer.
Bosses at ZSL London Zoo commissioned a production team to draw up a dramatic redesign of the famed skyscraper to remind visitors to the capital not to miss their penguins in 2012.
They plan to approach city bigwigs with the bold concept of turning the prominent Swiss Re Building – more commonly known as The Gherkin – into a giant penguin.
The images, revealed today, show London’s landmarks eclipsed by an enormous Humboldt penguin.
The Zoo’s Head of Comms, Emma Edwards says: “We don’t want anyone to miss our penguins, and they certainly wouldn’t be able to miss this one looming over the capital.
“We think ‘The Penguin’ would be a striking addition to the London skyline and serve as a perfect reminder to Londoners and tourists alike to visit ZSL London Zoo and Penguin Beach this summer.
“We know it’s audacious, but let’s be honest – penguins are a lot more interesting than gherkins!”
Earlier this year, LOCOG awarded the Zoo the coveted ‘Inspired by 2012’ mark for its Animal Athletes events – taking place all summer. Keepers celebrated the prestigious accolade by installing a diving board in the penguins’ pool.
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