KAI Enterprises, a national design build firm, created a solar panel shade canopy for the Saint Louis Zoo. Officially called the Williams Family Solar Pavilion, the canopy provides shelter for a 2,200-square-foot dining area in a prominent location in the zoo overlooking the central lagoon. The Pavilion will also host after-hours events as a source of additional revenue.
According to the press release, the design challenges included integration of technical requirements and the aesthetics of the solar array itself — a steep 20-degree panel slope, exposed wiring and connections, and an industrial appearance. The final design allowed for the inclusion of extensive custom artwork engraved into the Corten steel structure featuring aquatic life found throughout the park.
All images courtesy of KAI Enterprises.
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