Designing a new exhibit to bring guests nearly nose-to-nose with gorillas, orangutans, and South American monkeys

Brookfield Zoo Chicago: James & Elizabeth Bramsen Tropical Forests

As zoo design evolves, Brookfield Zoo Chicago: James & Elizabeth Bramsen Tropical Forests has reimagined their approach to animal care and conservation. The Zoo engaged the Goettsch Partners project team to upgrade its Tropic World exhibit, providing expanded habitat for gorillas, orangutans, and South American monkeys.

The Goettsch Partners project team included PJA Architects + Landscape Architects, now part of Stantec, who were responsible for concept design development through construction documents. Goettsch also added Stantec to their team to provide construction administration services.

The design includes mesh canopies attached to columns that appear as trees. These keep the animals secure while creating an open, airy environment. Engaging water features, vines, and sway poles in the guise of bamboo stems enrich the space. The design creates a tropical feel with greenery able to withstand Midwest weather, including 75 new trees, 500 shrubs, grasses, and vines.

The biggest challenge to designing this new space centered around animal mobility—animals had to move freely between the facilities throughout the day. So, the team created aerial transfer pathways above visitors’ heads that facilitate animal mobility and also allow guests to see the animals traveling through the exhibit.

By replacing a lawn formerly used for picnics and lounging, the design puts the focus back on wildlife while creating spaces that bring guests nearly nose-to-nose with gorillas, orangutans, and South American monkeys living in four outdoor areas. Plus, the space includes the Gorilla Conservation Center with two indoor habitats, including one accessible to the public with two-story glass viewing windows. The upper level is also home to the King Conservation Leadership Academy, furthering the Zoo’s mission to inspire new leaders in this crucial field.