Hamill Family Nature Plaza at Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield, IL

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Hoerr Schaudt, in collaboration with Booth Hansen Architects, led the revitalization of the long vacant Baboon Island exhibit area. The vision was a new science and nature plaza consisting of a series of thematic gardens focused around science-based educational programming and regional native ecosystems.

Commercial | Public Gardens
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The gardens serve to strengthen the connection of visitors of all ages and abilities to the natural environment. Located within the gardens is a new open-air pavilion for Animal Ambassador talks and other large group events.

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A key concept of the plan was the introduction of a beautiful mounded prairie along the south promenade creating a visual focal point and inviting guests to explore the gardens. This design move will have the added effect of making the Living Coast and other exhibits along the promenade a more walkable destination for visitors. Future animal exhibit expansion south of Tropic World is also accounted for north of the new pavilion.