Calgary Zoo’s Panda Passage Exhibit Opens to the Public

A panda climbs along a fallen artificial tree trunk inside the Panda Passage habitat at Calgary Zoo.

The new $14,000,000 CDN Panda Passage exhibit at the Calgary Zoo opened this spring to tremendous crowds. The zoo animal exhibit replaced the former elephant building, which was transformed into a lush forest environment. The building roof was retrofitted to allow for numerous skylights. This enhancement dramatically improved sunlight for the natural plants that embellish…

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Otter Passage, Exhibit Fabrication at the Milwaukee County Zoo

Milwaukee County Zoo Otter Passage

Otter Passage, part of the overall new West Entry project, opened to the public in May. The zoological project’s program includes the 2,000 sq. ft. otter exhibit, a new entrance to the zoo, a concessions building, a picnic area, and a guest services complex. This exhibit’s thematic story revolves around river otters that have moved…

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Wilderness Falls Water Play Area at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo

The entrance to the Fresno Chaffee zoo Wilderness water play area, which features National Geographic themed elements.

Wilderness Falls, the new interactive water play area with a National Park theme, recently opened at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo. This exhibit area has several activities for kids to explore, play, and learn about local wildlife. Kids will find logs and boulders to climb, a sand pit in which to dig, as well as exciting…

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The Barrel Room at Founders Taproom, Theme Construction

The Barrel Room at Founders Taproom features an artificial rockwork wall with engrained barrels in a dimly lit taproom with seating, low lights, and a full service bar.

COST is often called upon to replicate unique surroundings. The barrel room at Founders Taproom in Detroit is no exception. The barrel room concept was inspired by the gypsum mining caves located 85 feet below Grand Rapids, MI. This is where Founders Brewing Company “barrel-age” their distinctive craft beers. The simulated rockwork walls, old whiskey barrels, and beautiful…

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Gorilla World Exhibit Fabrication at Cincinnati Zoo

An image shows the inside of the Cincinnati Zoo Gorilla World exhibit, which includes simulated rockwork boulders, faux trees, vines, and trunks.

After three years of planning and fundraising and two years of construction, the new Gorilla World has opened to the public. The project’s first phase included outdoor modifications that allowed for the new gorilla building. To further accentuate the exhibit’s rolling topography, the renovated exterior space showcases refinished rock, additional new simulated rockwork, authentic-looking vines,…

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