Fort Worth Zoo – African Savanna

The African Savanna, the first major phase of A Wilder Vision, officially opened to the public in Spring 2018. During the design process, Dunaway brought the vision to life by transforming CAD drawings into immersive renderings using Lumion software—enabling zoo staff and stakeholders to fully visualize the project before construction began.

Now complete, this 5-acre expansion features a vibrant new event space, enhanced visitor amenities, and immersive habitats for hippos, rhinos, and birds. At its heart is a dynamic mixed-species exhibit that brings together a variety of African animals, highlighted by a popular giraffe feeding deck.

The Hippo River stands out as the most technically complex element of the expansion. Dunaway’s Landscape Architects and Structural Engineers collaborated closely with TJP Engineering—experts in animal life support systems—to design this one-of-a-kind exhibit.

A 75-foot-long glass wall offers guests panoramic underwater views of hippos and fish in a flowing river habitat. Behind the scenes, a sophisticated pump and filtration system maintains water clarity and generates a continuous current, creating an optimal environment for the animals. In a sustainable twist, the filtered water is repurposed for landscape irrigation—supporting both animal welfare and environmental stewardship.