Executive Summary
Zoo Atlanta partnered with Barnsley Construction Group to upgrade its lion exhibit with a focus on creating a more immersive, naturalistic environment for both animals and guests. RADrock was brought in to design and construct decorative concrete features that echoed the rugged terrain of the African savanna. Collaborating closely with the landscape architects at Breedlove Land Planning and Barnsley’s construction team, RADrock delivered a visually compelling, durable, and functional set of rockwork and theming elements that enhanced both the aesthetics and functionality of the space.
Project Background
As part of Zoo Atlanta’s ongoing efforts to improve its habitats and guest experience, the lion exhibit was selected for a comprehensive upgrade. The zoo aimed to create a more immersive, safari-like environment while improving animal welfare through enriched habitat design. Breedlove Land Planning led the landscape and architectural vision, while Barnsley Construction Group oversaw execution. Recognizing the importance of high-quality theming, Barnsley brought RADrock on board to handle all decorative concrete and rockwork elements.
Initial Design Review and Collaboration
RADrock was engaged early in the pre-construction phase to review the conceptual drawings and landscape plans developed by Breedlove. During this design review, RADrock identified key areas where theming could be enhanced through naturalistic concrete applications, such as guest-facing viewing areas, climbable rock ledges for the lions, and integrated retaining structures.
The collaboration between RADrock, Breedlove, and Barnsley proved invaluable. RADrock contributed constructability feedback to ensure the artistic vision was achievable on-site, while also recommending material selections and surface treatments suitable for an outdoor animal exhibit environment. The team coordinated closely with zoo personnel to ensure all elements met safety standards for both animals and visitors.
Custom Decorative Concrete Solutions
RADrock’s scope included several key components:
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Climbable Ledges & Outcroppings: Designed to mimic natural stone and serve as enrichment for the lions.
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Textured Retaining Walls: Sculpted and colored to blend with the terrain and minimize visual intrusions.
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Faux Boulders: Strategically placed for guest views and habitat interaction, created with hand-sculpted detail.
RADrock employed a mix of cast-in-place and hand-carved shotcrete methods. Each feature was custom-colored and textured to reflect the geology of the African savanna, using field mockups to gain approval from the design team before full production.
Challenges and Creative Solutions
The team faced several constraints:
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Working within a tight footprint and active zoo environment
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Weather-sensitive installation windows
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Strict safety and durability requirements for large predator habitats
RADrock coordinated daily with Barnsley and zoo operations to sequence work around animal schedules and public access. By adapting sculpting methods and curing techniques, RADrock maintained quality without delaying the broader project timeline.
Final Outcome and Impact
The upgraded lion exhibit opened to strong praise from both zoo staff and visitors. The naturalistic rockwork transformed the visual landscape, helping guests feel immersed in a savanna-like environment. For the lions, the climbable structures and shaded outcroppings offered enrichment opportunities and improved comfort.
The project stands as a model of collaborative success between design, construction, and specialty trades. RADrock delivered durable, themed elements that elevated the entire experience, proving the value of early involvement and strategic coordination.
RADrock Takeaways
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Early design collaboration allows for seamless theming integration
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Decorative concrete can achieve both artistic and functional goals in zoological environments
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Strong partnerships lead to exceptional outcomes
Client & Partner Testimonials
"RADrock was an integral part of the project team. Their ability to interpret design intent and deliver sculpted elements that felt truly authentic made a huge difference in the finished product." - Project Manager, Barnsley Construction Group
"From our first review meeting to the final walk-through, RADrock was collaborative, creative, and professional. They understood our goals and helped us bring them to life." - Lead Designer, Breedlove Land Planning