Fresno Chaffee Zoo Zooplex Center
Bringing the outside in at the zoo
Understanding what drives the need for change
Behind the scenes at Fresno Chaffee Zoo, where 190 animal species call the park home, the administrative team faced a unique workspace challenge. Their new 18,000 square foot Zooplex Center sat at the heart of the zoo's operations, positioned between the park's two most spectacular and visited exhibits, yet remained hidden from public view. The building offered something extraordinary: 360-degree views of world-class animal habitats and the daily rhythms of zoo life.
The zoo's leadership wanted more than just functional office space. They envisioned an environment where their dedicated staff could feel as connected to the zoo's mission and energy as the guests who visited daily. The administrative team needed a workspace that would foster collaboration and excitement while maintaining the natural, organic feel that defined the zoo's character. The challenge was creating an interior that honored both the building's spectacular setting and the organization's culture of caring for wildlife.
How we brought the vision to life
Tangram approached this project by embracing the building's unique position as a bridge between administrative efficiency and the zoo's living, breathing mission. Working closely with Paul Haljian Architects, the design team crafted an open, contemporary workspace that maximized those remarkable 360-degree views while creating distinct zones for different work styles and needs.
The furniture selection told a story of connection to nature through carefully chosen materials and finishes. Natural wood elements anchored every space, from private offices featuring Steelcase Currency storage systems to collaborative benching areas with AMQ Kinex workstations. Charcoal grays and warm brown leathers wove throughout the space, creating a sophisticated palette that felt both contemporary and organic. The design team thoughtfully planned eight distinct functional areas, including a welcoming lobby with Blu Dot seating, flexible conference rooms, and even a respite lounge with Campfire furniture that provided staff with a calming retreat. Every piece was selected not just for its function, but for how it would help zoo employees feel energized by their connection to the incredible work happening just outside their windows.
5 solutions from 1 manufacturers
Campfire Pouf
Pick it up, take it with you, offer it to a friend. Ideal for casual meeting spaces and impromptu collaboration, Turnstone's Campfire Pouf's mobile design brings style to lounge spaces.
Migration
Migration electric height-adjustable desk allows users to move from seated to standing height, stimulating physical activity and promoting wellbeing in individual and group spaces.
Think
The Think chair is an ergonomic office chair that senses what your body needs. The Integrated LiveBack™ System conforms to your body and moves with you as you change postures. It features an advanced weight-activated seat, so anybody can get comfortable, quickly.
Campfire Lounge
Your best days happen when you have the flexibility to work in ways that best support your needs and give your creativity room to stretch. Campfire allows for endless configurations ranging from group lounge spaces to individualized areas designed for high focus.
Campfire Pouf
Pick it up, take it with you, offer it to a friend. Ideal for casual meeting spaces and impromptu collaboration, Turnstone's Campfire Pouf's mobile design brings style to lounge spaces.
2 professionals brought this vision to life
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