Heart of Africa | Columbus Zoo

Columbus | OH

A vibrant, mixed species savanna that raises the bar on habitat design and guest immersion.

acre expansion

17.4 hectares

animals
species
Project Services

Campus Plan, Architectural Design, Exhibit Design, Interior Design, Interactive Experience Design, Construction Administration, Art Direction

Awards and Achievements

Top Honor in Design | Association of Zoos & Aquariums
Midwest Best Cultural Project | Engineering News Record
EXPY Award | Experience Columbus

Heart of Africa | Columbus Zoo

Innovation was the key design element in Heart of Africa. To provide animals with opportunities to exhibit their natural behaviors, we approached the project with an anything-is-possible mindset, including rotating habitats, a cheetah run, and mixed species opportunities. Guests are also enriched by an intimate connection with lions through strategically placed cooling stations in the lion habitat that bring these beautiful creatures eye-to-eye with guests.

Guests view an open plane of hoofstock and lions at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's Heart of Africa

An elevated walkway provides another perspective of the vast savanna and creates space for an unforgettable interaction with a giraffe. Heart of Africa celebrates the vibrant cultures of Africa with respect and shines a spotlight on the zoo’s unwavering commitment to conservation efforts.

While anyone can show you pretty pictures, at PGAV, we have the expertise to turn them into reality. Everything we draw can be built.

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Let’s change the way people see the world.

Let us help you advance your mission of education and conservation—and look for ways to infuse a little joy along the way.

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