ARCHITECT

Zoos need very specialized buildings and exhibit spaces to accommodate the complex needs of the numerous animal species they house. The people who design these buildings and spaces are called architects. Zoos either have architects on staff or work with outside architects to help design brand new exhibits or refresh older exhibits. What makes zoo architects unique is that their clients are primarily animals instead of people. Zoo architects must become familiar with the needs and habits of their animal clients (how strong is it? Is it a good jumper, climber or digger? Does it need large volumes of water? Is it sensitive to hot or cold weather?) in order to design a space that will not only best serve their needs, but also allow visitors to have a great viewing experience of the animals.