Giraffes eating hay out of a plastic feeder in an enclosure.

Civic Case Study

An Unforgettable Zoo Experience

The red panda and giraffe enclosures are some of the first attractions visitors see when they enter Lincoln Children’s Zoo. In 2019, the new animal enclosures were some of the biggest attractions when the Zoo opened its $16 million expansion, which effectively doubled its size. These wonderful exhibits continue to be a primary driver of traffic to Lincoln Children’s Zoo today.

Timeline 2018 to 2019

Project Name Block Lincoln Children’s Zoo

Location Lincoln, Nebraska

The Objective

Create beautiful and purposeful metal art to enhance zoo-goers’ experiences.

The Scope

In 2018, we partnered with Lincoln Children’s Zoo to enhance the public-facing structures near the giraffe and red panda exhibits. The design process involved close collaboration with Lincoln Children’s Zoo, ensuring each piece met the Zoo’s specifications. Our team brought their vision to life, including a unique privacy fence designed to mimic the look of tall grass, as well as a new donor wall, draft barn, and event stage.

Client Impact

The chance to feed the giraffes and observe the playful red pandas are highlights of every visit to the Zoo. These major attractions, located at the entrance and exit, create lasting memories for visitors, especially children. The privacy fence, donor wall, draft barn, and event stage all contribute to making a great first impression and an unforgettable experience for all.

Lincoln Childrens Zoo Donor Wall with metal decorations such as leaves with each donors name and zoo animals.

Donor recognition can be as exciting as the zoo exhibits themselves.

Community Impact

In 2022, Lincoln Children’s Zoo welcomed nearly 350,000 visitors and earned acclaim from Parents Magazine, ranking among the best children’s zoos. Before its expansion, many exhibits had remained unchanged for years. The Zoo now houses over 400 animals, including 40 endangered species. The expansion ensures families will continue to visit Lincoln Children’s Zoo again and again.