Designed for immersive moments of discovery, the prefabricated mass timber buildings of the Naylor Savanna contribute to a healthy mixed-species environment, inspire the next generation of conservationists, and fund giraffe habitat conservation.
The Naylor Savanna features a Giraffe House and an Overnight Guest Casita within a savanna habitat of giraffes, zebras, sitatungas, and ostriches, all nestled within the San Antonio Zoo.
The Zoo’s Animal Care staff was an integral team member. This collaboration led to the selection of eased edge pre-fabricated wood glu-lams for structure, as curious giraffes lick and lean on everything, and led to the buildings being sited to reduce hidden corners and blind-spots the animals might find stressful.
The Casita functions as a one room hotel within the Zoo, and is carefully sited above an existing rain garden and connects to an existing viewing deck providing universal access at giraffe-height. A discovery bay window with a trundle bed allows children to sleep with a prime savanna view, waking up to giraffes right outside their window. An outdoor porch captures commanding binocular viewing of the savanna, as well as the prevailing breezes. A portion of the overnight stays funds giraffe conservation in their native range.
The Giraffe House includes a bay window on ground level allowing guests to see giraffes up close, with a zoo-keeper walk above for feeding and care. The project was sited within the historic quarry to maintain historic listing, maximize habitat, and allow quick and safe animal trailer access within the complex site.
The Naylor Savanna elevates guest and animal experiences alike by creating immersive architecture within the largest habitat in the 111-year history of the San Antonio Zoo.
Architecture: smithdish architecture; Animal Care: San Antonio Zoo Animal Care Team; Interior Design: smithdish architecture with WestEast Design Group; Timber Frame Design Assist: Timberlyne Group; Structural/Civil: A-1 Engineering; MEP Engineer: DBR; Landscape Architecture: Terra Design Group with San Antonio Zoo; Building Envelope: Acton Partners; Code: FPCC; Archeology: Pape Dawson; Geotech: TTL; Heavy Timber Contractor: Timberlyne Group; General Contractor: Spawglass; Photographer: Corey Leamon; Collaborator: Trey Rabke
Awards: San Antonio American Subcontractors Association 2024 Project of the Year