Studies released in late 2022 revealed an alarming change in the landscape of the AEC industry: construction costs had risen by nearly 30% since 2019, and by 17.5% alone from just 2020 to 2021: the largest spike in this data from year-to-year since 1970 (x). While models project costs returning to close to typical levels […]
Lessons Learned in Value Engineering and Intuitive Zoo Design Read More »
Epsten Group, in partnership with Ursa International, has been fortunate to have worked with Oklahoma City Zoo since 2016, collaborating on several projects ranging from Master Plan services to habitat design for many of the Zoo’s diverse inhabitants. Epsten Group has worked since 1991 as pioneers of sustainability in the built environment across a myriad
The relationship between zoos and the local communities they serve is a complex one that has changed and evolved drastically in the past few decades. With a more intent focus on conservation, rehabilitation, and education, zoos across the world have grown in their missions to better serve animals, extending this mission to include stewarding members
How Conscious Zoo Design Encourages Community Connection Read More »
An Overview of the Philosophy Shaping Zoological Design and Animal Practices Management
The Wellness-Focused Zoo Read More »
Helping to cap the most ambitious expansion in Zoo Atlanta’s history, both the Zambezi Elephant Center and Savanna Hall Renovation have officially earned LEED Gold certification. Administered by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) program recognizes buildings across the world for design and construction geared toward the
Zoo Atlanta’s Zambezi Elephant Center and Savanna Hall Awarded LEED Gold Read More »
One of the focal points of Epsten Group and Zoo Atlanta’s Grand New View concept was the conversion of the historic Grant Park Cyclorama building into Savanna Hall. Originally constructed in 1921, the building was formerly the home to the Battle of Atlanta painting-in-the-round commemorating the 1854 Civil War battle of the same name.
The Historic Transformation of Savanna Hall: Zoo Atlanta’s Grand New View Read More »
The historic transformation of Savanna Hall creates a game-changing opportunity for Zoo Atlanta. With expansive windows and natural daylighting, this iconic gem brings the visitor experience up close and personal to the wild with sweeping views overlooking the African Savanna landscape. The renovation involved the conversion of the historic Grant Park Cyclorama into a new
Zoo Atlanta, Savanna Hall Renovation Read More »
An Executive Summary of the Philosophy Shaping Zoological Design and Animal Practices Management
The Wellness-Focused Zoo Summary Read More »
In order to improve the health and wellness of the orangutans inhabiting its existing exhibit, Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Gardens engaged Epsten Group as their chosen zoo design firm. We designed a new climbing structure, built to promote natural climbing and brachiating. The climber aims to improve animal wellness by promoting higher levels of
Oklahoma City Zoo, Orangutan Climber Read More »
Epsten Group was the zoo design firm chosen by Oklahoma City Zoo to design a new Galapagos Tortoise exhibit at the site of its existing children’s zoo area as a part of its ongoing Master Plan renovations. The Galapagos Tortoise exhibit consists of an indoor holding facility with a sand floor and an artificial pool
Oklahoma City Zoo, Galapagos Tortoise Exhibit Read More »