Lake Superior Zoo Pavilion

The Lake Superior Zoo Pavilion is a 1,900 SF timber-framed, open-air structure located on a 40+ acre site renowned for its natural beauty, rocky terrain, and Kingsbury Creek—a trout stream knifing its way throughout the site. The pavilion was designed for the site and balances the ecology of the landscape and the built environment needed for humans.

The pavilion is constructed out of 6x10 columns on micropiles with the remaining structure consisting of laminated nominal 2x12 joists and beams. The roof has a playful yet dynamic profile with two different bearing heights offset from one another giving the appearance of the roofline moving from one end to the other in constant motion. The underside of the roof is clad in plywood sheathing giving it a warm aesthetic juxtaposed against its dark, charcoal gray corrugated metal roof.

The pavilion is oriented on-site to overlook the open field of grass along the shoreline of Kingsbury Creek. The intent is to host events such as weddings and gatherings and provide a beautiful experience that connects people back to nature.

This project focuses on the Zoo’s core values of Innovation, Community, DEAI, Safety, and Stewardship to create an accessible space that ties into the existing trails on-site. The design intent was not only for the building to complement its surroundings but to allow users to experience the natural beauty of the site and focus their attention on the outdoors.