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With a few weeks of summer left, we’re excited to share some recently completed projects and some other favorites in and around Chicago to fill your final days with a little education and a lot of fun!
James & Elizabeth Bramsen Tropical Forests at Brookfield Zoo Chicago
We are excited to share the new primate indoor/outdoor habitats that span nearly three acres at Brookfield Zoo Chicago! Replicating the native environments of gorillas, orangutans and monkeys, Bramsen Tropical Forests includes four distinct habitats and climate zones inspired by regions of Africa, Asia and South America. The new space incorporates cutting-edge innovations in primate wellness to support the specific behavioral and physical needs of the Zoo’s primate residents.
Our work included constructing a new building to serve both a family and a bachelor group of critically endangered Western Lowland Gorillas. There are two indoor holding facilities and one allows for up-close visitor viewing. The second floor of the building is dedicated to the King Conservation Leadership Academy program. With its innovative, hands-on approach to leadership development that incorporates environmental literacy and inclusion, this program helps to cultivate the next generation of conservation-minded, community-driven leaders. There are training and event spaces with an outdoor terrace that provides an elevated vantage point for viewing the animals.
The outdoor habitat allows close-up viewing through glass structures as animals travel between interior environments and the outdoor spaces overhead. Waterfalls surrounded by natural and artificial trees and other features in the habitats provide animal enrichment and promote climbing behaviors as they would in the wild. Hollowed-out fallen trees offer unique viewing opportunities.
From immersive habitats to behind-the-scenes innovation, the James & Elizabeth Bramsen Tropical Forests is more than just a new habitat, it’s a place where animals thrive, future conservation leaders grow, and visitors of all ages can get a little closer to the wild. We’re proud to have played a part in building this unforgettable experience at Brookfield Zoo Chicago. So next time you visit, don’t just look around—look up, look in and get inspired by the world of wonder we helped bring to life!
As a Pepper eblast subscriber, Brookfield Zoo Chicago is offering a discount for the Roaring Nights concert featuring Better Than Ezra and Tonic on Saturday, August 16. Use code TIGER to get $20 off general admission tickets! (Offer ends August 15,2025 or while supplies last. Not valid on membership tickets or previously purchased tickets. Online tickets only.)
Shedd Aquarium Experience Evolution
As Shedd prepares to celebrate its centennial in 2030, the beloved aquarium is undergoing a dramatic transformation through its Experience Evolution—a multi-year effort to reimagine exhibits, restore historic architecture and create more immersive, inclusive spaces for all.
From the moment you arrive at Shedd Aquarium, you’ll notice a difference. A newly designed south entry plaza offers a welcoming, accessible arrival experience with lakefront views and aquatic-inspired design. Inside, a handcrafted wave wall and improved circulation pathways—including new elevators, ramps and escalators—make exploring Shedd easier and more enjoyable for every guest.
At the heart of this phase of renovations is the stunning new Wonder of Water exhibit, located in Shedd’s iconic rotunda. Two massive, curved habitats rise from the floor, holding 28,000 gallons of water and showcasing a dazzling mix of saltwater and freshwater ecosystems—live corals, thousands of fish and over 50 plant species. Other updated exhibits, like Amazon Rising, provide animals with more naturalistic spaces and give guests up-close views of behaviors of rainforest creatures.
Before any construction began, the Pepper Virtual Construction team spent two years scanning and planning for the intricate renovation of Shedd Aquarium’s nearly 100-year-old building. Extensive MEP and BIM coordination was required to upgrade life support systems while preserving existing infrastructure and maintaining ongoing operations. Equipment replacement and shutdowns were carefully sequenced to protect aquatic life and visitor experience.
A new fire-sprinkler system was discreetly integrated into historic spaces like Kovler Hall, requiring innovative methods to conceal piping in plaster ceilings adorned with sea-life motifs. Copper piping was used exclusively near habitats to meet safety standards.
A key design element was the installation of massive acrylic viewing panels—some as large as 32 feet and 5,500 pounds—requiring reinforced floors, custom rigging, and surgical precision to navigate through a landmarked structure and tight museum campus site.
Concrete work added another layer of complexity. New structures were cast inside the existing footprint, integrating multi-radius walls with exacting tolerances to support acrylic panels and retain water. With limited access, concrete was pumped in and handled twice, requiring enhanced safety and quality controls.
These changes go beyond beauty—they’re about making aquatic life more accessible. Interpretive signage is now in both English and Spanish. Interactive displays were tested with real community members to ensure engagement for all ages and abilities. From strollers to wheelchairs, everyone can explore with ease.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering an old favorite, Shedd’s transformation is a must-see. With its commitment to conservation, education and community, Shedd Aquarium continues to bridge the gap between people and nature—inviting every guest to connect with aquatic life and be inspired to protect our blue planet. Plan your visit today and see what the next 100 years of wonder looks like!
Lincoln Park Zoo
Don't forget a visit to Lincoln Park Zoo for exciting habitats built by Pepper.
