A sustainable sweet spot in the heart of the Zoo

KAI was selected by the Saint Louis Zoo to provide Architectural, MEP/FP Engineering, and Build services to a multi-tenant retail replacement building in the Schnuck Family Plaza – a pedestrian circulation nexus in the center of the Zoo. New tenants include Candy Crossing fudge and candy shop, full-service Starbucks (the first ever located within a zoo), and a 2,200-square-foot outdoor dining area overlooking North Lake and featuring a beautiful new solar panel shade canopy, officially called Williams Family Solar Pavilion.

The new 1,500 SF space is a vibrant spot providing sweets and beverages for visitors of all ages year round, with multiple outdoor dining options. Sustainability, environmental and animal-friendly considerations were a driving force behind the design, with the building earning LEED Silver Certification. Elements include an energy-efficient HVAC system, low-VOC materials, and permeable pavement that allows rainwater to collect in the lake behind the store. Special vertical markings were placed on the store’s windows to prevent bird strikes and injury. Additionally, the solar panels atop the Williams Family Pavilion help power both the Candy Crossing and Starbucks spaces. No detail was overlooked – down to using compostable straws in Starbucks beverages instead of plastic. All items at Candy Crossing are made with either sustainable palm oil or no palm oil at all, which protects rainforest animals and their homes.