Global design firm PGAV Destinations, which won accolades for Chimelong Ocean Kingdom last year, has announced a completely different type of project. Following on from the blockbuster Chinese theme park comes a change of pace, as the practice starts work on California wild animal rescue centre Big Bear Alpine Zoo.

PGAV has been commissioned to redesign the facility, which is being relocated to a nearby site. The zoo originally opened in 1959 to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned, injured and illegal animals.

“The primary goal is to create a highly functional space for animals with very specialised needs,” said PGAV Destinations project leader Stacey Tarpley. “This is not about creating a thematic overlay or a guest-immersion environment; it’s about creating the best environment that supports the best possible life for each of these animals with unique disabilities.”

The brief includes the provision of exhibits, support facilities and landscaping, as well as ticketing, retail and staff facilities. Construction is slated to begin in October.

The design team has brought animal exhibits to life in the past, including Heart of Africa at Columbus Zoo, Glacier Run at Louisville Zoo and Edge of Africa at Busch Gardens.