Heart of Africa | Columbus Zoo
Columbus | OH
A vibrant, mixed species savanna that raises the bar on habitat design and guest immersion.
17.4 hectares
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.
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.
