Date Completed: June 2007
Client: Saint Louis Zoo
Size: 18,000 sq. ft.
LEED Status: Silver
Type of Construction: New
Service: Commissioning – LEED Fundamental
Facility Type: Laboratory/Research
Project Budget: $5 million

This nutrition center consists of a laboratory and office area, animal food preparation and education support services at the Saint Louis Zoo. This 10,000-square foot facility offers high-tech capabilities. There are four food preparation stations in a stainless steel kitchen, cold and dry storage, giant walk-in coolers, and oversized shelving, plus a loading dock for large food deliveries.
The William R. Orthwein, Jr. & Laura Rand Orthwein Animal Nutrition Center’s sleek, modern design incorporates many green design features, making it one of only a handful of buildings in the St. Louis area to receive the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) silver certification. Energy efficient and environmentally friendly features, including a green roof composed of a mixture of colorful sedum (succulent, all-weather plant) species and grasses, optimized heating and cooling systems, plus the extensive use of natural light and recycled materials, will ensure compliancy with the LEED rating systems.