ZooTampa
Campus Planning
Perry Becker Design has been engaged with ZooTampa through numerous projects. As part of our Master Services Agreement with ZooTampa, PBD regularly provides full design and construction management services. PBD has worked on multiple park-wide design and construction projects including themed visitor spaces, animal habitats, and animal containment areas.
Stingray Shores
Perry Becker Design led and produced the design of Stingray Shores, a “reimagined” state-of-the-art habitat featuring stingrays. This popular exhibit gives guests the opportunity to interact with and feed the rays or wade into the water for an up-close experience with the animals.
In addition to surface viewing, this 1,800 SF habitat also allows for feeding experiences and photo opportunities. Among the other exhibit features are a specialized shift gate system, designed to allow for the separation of the main pool into two smaller pools and a brand new 2,100 SF Life Support mechanical yard. This experience also includes an ADA transfer chair to seamlessly allow guests of all abilities to enjoy this new habitat up close.
Largest Expansion in the History of the Zoo
The Zoo’s transformation started with the launch of Florida Wilds, a pioneering expansion featuring enhanced habitats for endangered and threatened native species, as well as the immersive Stingray Shores and the intriguing Australia realm. Looking ahead, PBD is thrilled to enter the next phase of design and development, which will introduce four new, vibrant areas: Manatee Rescue Center, South America, Africa, and Asia. These upcoming realms are designed to provide even more engaging and educational experiences, further deepening our dedication to wildlife conservation and enriching the visitor experience.
Manatee Rescue
The Manatee Rescue project at Zoo Tampa is a renovation of the Existing Manatee & Aquatics Center. Built in 1991 and located in the heart of Zoo Tampa’s campus, the goal of this project is to renovate and expand the existing Aquatic Center and rename it to ‘The Manatee Rescue Center’. Perry Becker Design worked with TVS Architects who led the design team in an effort to raise the quality of the Center to a level that enhances Zoo Tampa’s mission of conservation through the care of its manatee population.
With the inclusion of aquarium elements and updated species on display, the Manatee Rescue Center can expand the Zoo’s exhibition narrative and provide the guests with a unique and immersive environment to view the species. The LSS will be designed to maintain optimum water quality for the exhibit inhabitants and guest viewing experience.
Australia Renovation
Perry Becker Design lead the redesign of ZooTampa’s Australia Realm. This project included a reimagined Billabong Splash Pad which features brand new surfacing and waterplay elements for young guests to enjoy while their parents or guardians unwind at the nearby Boomerang Bar, enjoying local beers, cocktails, and wines.
A brand new dry play area sits nearby with opportunities for climbing and exploration, giving guests an entirely new view of the Australia wilderness. Additionally, this new area includes the family-friendly Aussie Trek ride, where guests of all ages can embark on a safari adventure and discover Australia’s unique wildlife.
Services
Animal Habitat Design
Capital Campaign Support
Enrichment Design
Graphic Design
Guest Experience Design
Interpretive Storytelling
Landscape Architectural Design
Marketing Graphics
Master Planning
Revenue Integration Campus Study
Stakeholder Coordination
Downloads
Contact the Team
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PROJECT STORY
Splashing Into Spring: Ready for the Zoo’s Busy Season
Perry Becker Design orchestrated a seamless collaboration between architects, engineers, ride fabricators, and aquatic designers to bring this exciting zoo project to life. With an expedited timeline, the team worked tirelessly to ensure everything was completed in time for a grand opening ahead of Spring Break 2024. The project combined innovative design with logistical precision, allowing guests to enjoy the new attractions just as the zoo enters its busiest season. Perry | Becker Design’s leadership ensured that every detail—from thrilling rides to immersive aquatic environments—was perfectly aligned, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors.
