Lion House, Bronx Zoo
QRP designed sitework for this LEED project with adaptive architectural renovation by architects Fox & Fowle (predecessor firm to Cook + Fox).
The Lion House posed special challenges and opportunities for sustainable site design and achieving a LEED rating. The Beaux Arts structure had been closed to Zoo visitors since the late 1970s when the lions, panthers, and tigers were moved to more naturalistic settings. The adaptive reuse of the structure has transformed it into a vital education and exhibit venue. An outdoor terrace provides a setting for events and receptions.
Preservation of granite and sculptural limestone site features was a major objective of the work. The landscape design strategy emphasized limiting the zone of site disturbance, permanently designating adjacent areas for open space preservation, use of native plant material not requiring irrigation, and minimizing heat island effect through preservation of existing mature trees that provide shade over large expanses of existing pavement.
Location
Bronx, NY
Client
Wildlife Conservation Society
Role
Landscape Architect
Team
Fox & Fowle Architects
