Zellner Construction served as General Contractor for the Memphis Zoo’s Zambezi River Hippo Camp – a $18M, 165,000-square-foot immersive exhibit that reimagines the zoo experience. The project transformed a former bear habitat into a vibrant African fishing village, complete with themed architecture, elevated boardwalks, and expansive viewing areas. The scope included demolition, complex underground utility work, structural concrete and masonry, custom architectural finishes, and a 500,000-gallon aquatic environment supported by advanced life support and filtration systems. Unique construction elements included specialty glazing, habitat simulation features, and carefully coordinated construction sequencing to protect existing zoo operations. 

The project demanded tight collaboration with zoological designers and engineers to deliver a facility that balances aesthetics, safety, and specialized animal needs. The result is a dynamic, educational space that enhances visitor engagement and reinforces the zoo’s global conservation mission.