Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo has announced plans and unveiled the design for the renovation of the Kovler Lion House. The building originally opened in 1912 and is listed as a historic landmark.
The design of the $35 million renovation was created using data collected over the past few years related to the lions’ behavior, habitat use, and preferences. The renovation will include a savannah-style habitat for a pride of lions and any potential future offspring that will span the full northern side of the facility. The habitat will include intricate rockwork to increase vertical complexity, environmental options, and act as embedded heating and cooling elements; tree structures and a deadfall made from Forest Stewardship Council-certified trees; and a food zipline that simulates prey.
See Also: A series of green bridges will connect these two towers in Shenzhen, China
The Lion House will feature new opportunities for human guests as well. The design places visitors directly in the center of the habitat and large expanses of glass on the inside and outside of the building will allow guests to view the lions from up close.
Goettsch Partners is the architect for the project and PJA is the exhibit designer.
Related Stories
Museums | May 19, 2021
Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame opens after $25 million renovation
CambridgeSeven designed the project.
Wood | May 14, 2021
What's next for mass timber design?
An architect who has worked on some of the nation's largest and most significant mass timber construction projects shares his thoughts on the latest design trends and innovations in mass timber.
Education Facilities | May 3, 2021
Khor Kalba Turtle and Wildlife Sanctuary completes in the United Arab Emirates
Hopkins Architects designed the project.
Museums | Apr 27, 2021
GWWO Architects unveils design of the new Niagara Falls Visitor Center
The project will replace the current outdated and cramped facility.
Market Data | Feb 24, 2021
2021 won’t be a growth year for construction spending, says latest JLL forecast
Predicts second-half improvement toward normalization next year.
Museums | Jan 28, 2021
Arkansas Arts Center to undergo $142 million transformation into the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
Studio Gang is designing the project.
Reconstruction Awards | Dec 29, 2020
The reenvisioned Sazerac House: A delectable cocktail that's just perfect for the Big Easy
The 51,987-sf Sazerac House is an interactive cocktail museum, active distillery, corporate headquarters, and event venue, all under one roof, next to the historic French Quarter of New Orleans.
Giants 400 | Dec 16, 2020
Download a PDF of all 2020 Giants 400 Rankings
This 70-page PDF features AEC firm rankings across 51 building sectors, disciplines, and specialty services.
Museums | Nov 16, 2020
Design of the National Bonsai and Penjing Museum unveiled
Reed Hilderbrand and Trahan Architects designed the project.