A Bold New Adventure: How Zoo Design Inspires Curiosity and Shapes the Future of Architecture
Architecture shapes environments that inspire curiosity, engagement, and discovery. It’s also a significant part of hands-on education, both in the classroom and in adventures beyond.
The community of Abilene celebrated the groundbreaking ceremony for the largest expansion in the Abilene Zoo‘s history on March 26. “A Bold New Adventure” will include new animal habitats, immersive experiences, and interactive spaces that elevate learning experiences.
“The Abilene Zoo plays a huge role in education, both formally and informally,” said Parkhill Project Manager Collin Zalesak, AIA. “It introduces visitors — especially kids — to wildlife, conservation, and ecosystems in a way that’s tangible and memorable.”
Education and Design: Bringing Africa to West Texas
The project involves transforming eight acres to bring the sights and sounds of the African continent to life in West Texas. This series of exhibits will feature seven new buildings and a diverse array of animal habitats, including dedicated spaces for rhinos, giraffes, lions, hyenas, cheetahs, meerkats, and more. Each exhibit is thoughtfully crafted to promote animal well-being and provide engaging, educational experiences for visitors of all ages.
“Unlike a classroom setting, the zoo creates real-world connections that stick with people. It encourages curiosity, empathy for animals, and an understanding of our responsibility to the environment,” Collin said. “From a design perspective, that educational mission really influences how spaces are planned, making learning intuitive and engaging through experience rather than signage alone.”
This project also sparks a unique interest in the architecture profession. Unlike traditional buildings typically associated with architecture, a zoo blends creativity, storytelling, and hands-on experiences, transforming abstract concepts into tangible environments filled with a child-like curiosity of animals and their habitats, while creating memorable experiences.
“The reaction from kids — especially my own — is always excitement,” Collin said. “As soon as you mention the zoo, their imagination takes off. Suddenly, architecture isn’t abstract anymore; it’s about animals, habitats, paths, and experiences they can picture themselves walking through. I absolutely think that sparks interest in the profession.”
Additional Project Highlights
An exclusive highlight is the inclusion of a C-130 aircraft, donated as a static display by Dyess Air Force Base, honoring the region’s military heritage and offering a one-of-a-kind visual centerpiece within the exhibit.
The development also features a two-story Big Cat Cafe with a full kitchen and dining services, allowing guests to enjoy panoramic views of the animal habitats while dining. For special occasions, the exhibit includes a dedicated bridal suite, making it a versatile and memorable venue.
A Community Story of Partnership and Stewardship
Parkhill led the initial master planning in 2019 and continued with the design phase, ensuring a cohesive vision from concept to execution. Construction began in March 2026. The Africa Exhibit will serve as a signature attraction for the Abilene Zoo, supporting its mission to inspire meaningful conversations and connections between the community and the wonders of the natural world.
Parkhill has had the privilege of being involved with the zoo, dating back to the zoo’s founding in 1966 and the original zoo design completed under the legacy of Jimmy Tittle and the Tittle Luther Partnership.
“What excites me most about this project is the opportunity to build on Parkhill’s long-standing relationship with the Abilene Zoo and the community,” Collin said. “There’s a strong sense of stewardship that comes with that history — we’re not starting from scratch; we’re continuing a story.
“Being able to respect what’s already beloved about the zoo while helping it evolve for future generations is incredibly rewarding. As an architect, it’s exciting to work on a place that holds so many memories for people and to help shape spaces that will create new ones.