Often referred to as New York City’s ‘biggest little zoo,’ the Staten Island Zoo has been a beloved destination for locals since its establishment in 1936. The home of Staten Island Chuck and known for its African Savanna and Tropical Rainforest exhibits, the Zoo is now adding Temperate Forest Animals exhibits. nARCHITECTS is reimagining the arrival experience for visitors with a new ticketing kiosk and entrance plaza, which will connect to the new exhibits.
The new entrance along Clove Road welcomes patrons into a landscape of discovery. Conceived as a generous civic gesture, the entry plaza softens the transition from the street to the zoo, guided by a new perimeter ‘tree fence’ inspired by animal crackers. A round, log-like ticketing kiosk serves as an orientation point at the heart of the plaza.
Centered on the ecology of the Temperate Forest, newly accessible paths bring visitors through the animal habitats of the porcupine, panda, bald eagle, and owl along their route to older animal exhibits. These pathways also lead to immersive discovery areas, reframing the zoo for freeform exploration and experiential learning for children.
