Polar Bear Exhibit Renovation & Expansion

HH Architecture designed the North Carolina Zoo’s most popular exhibit, which offers visitors unique viewing experiences of the polar bear habitat—from underwater, in an immersive “ice cave” with tactile features evocative of the tundra, and from an overlook with a pavilion that displays artistic and educational pieces highlighting elements of the bears’ natural habitat. 

Practical and cost-effective sustainable design elements were incorporated, including updated energy-efficient systems, natural and local materials, and trees cleared from the site for bear enrichment. Using 3D models and animated walk-throughs to simulate the visitor sequence throughout the exhibit, our team was able to quickly respond to and incorporate feedback from the range of client representatives. Our graphic representations became helpful marketing tools for the Zoo to secure patrons for the project.