Los Angeles Zoo | Adaptive Reuse Plan

TESSERE partnered with the Los Angeles Zoo to explore reinvestment opportunities across a complex, publicly owned campus in Griffith Park. As part of a broader planning effort, the team evaluated underutilized and vacant facilities to identify how existing assets could be adapted to support future collection goals, evolving animal care standards, and improved guest experiences. 

Adaptive Reuse Through a New Lens 

The study focused on three former animal habitats, developing concepts that transformed aging spaces into modern, species-appropriate environments while maximizing existing infrastructure. Proposed concepts included a multi-species African habitat, a richly layered red panda forest, and a semi-aquatic tomistoma habitat that strategically repurposed the existing sea lion pool. 

By emphasizing adaptive reuse over replacement, the planning effort demonstrated how thoughtful design can extend the life of existing facilities while advancing animal welfare, sustainability, and long-term operational value. The resulting framework provides the Zoo with flexible options for future investment while reinforcing its commitment to responsible growth and stewardship.