“Did you say you are a zoo architect? That’s cool!”
I get that a lot after an introduction. And inevitably, that person will ask if it is “fun.” It is. But there’s much more that goes into the thinking, planning and design of zoos than most people think.
The biggest misconception regarding zoo design is that there is a single architect with a singular vision. Zoo design is a team effort that involves architects, landscape architects, engineers, horticulturalists and zoo staff. Together, as a team, we collaborate on how to plan, design and build the best exhibit possible. But as the architect, we are concerned about every little detail and how it works together.
Zoo animals are ambassadors for their wild counterparts, connecting visitors to the natural world. And, like human ambassadors, these animal ambassadors should be treated with a great deal of respect. It is our job as zoo exhibit designers to create an environment where the animal thrives. But that is only one-third of the equation.
Great zoo architecture also considers the zookeeper and the viewing public. We like to say that the needs of the animal, the public and the zookeeper are three legs of a stool and all must be equally considered. If one aspect is carried away, another element suffers. If the staff are unsafe or don’t have room to work, then they can’t care for the animals properly. If animals are uncomfortable or bored, they’re not as active, which results in the visitors not being as entertained. This is why three-way balance is needed.
In the early days, most zoos were caged menageries of exotic animals where there was more gawking by the public than learning or emotionally connecting. As thoughts changed, so did exhibits to more natural habitats.
For the past 27 years, WDM has employed a number of innovative design techniques to Engage, Entertain, and Educate zoo visitors. Some of these techniques include: immersion design, thematic storytelling, cultural resonance, activity-based design and others. Emerging design trends include rotation of animals in exhibits to vary their own experiences, and the concept of “Trails,” which allows animals to access an enclosed trail system that greatly extends their zoo habitat.
Tiger gets to look over her whole habitat from her overhead shifts at Rosebrough Tiger Passage in Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.
The Rosebrough Tiger Passage designed by WDM Architects for Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is a great example of “Trails.” Four interconnected habitats with two overhead pathways give the zoo’s tigers opportunity for high vantage points and a variety of perspectives.
Whatever the future holds for Zoo Architectural Design, the architects and landscape architects at WDM will continue to be part of the evolution with our innovations in stewardship, conservation, and preservation that maximizes all aspects of the zoo experience.
