The most ambitious sustainable construction project in the zoo’s history, the Pygmy Hippo Habitat is pursuing the Living Building Challenge Materials Petal. The 8,500-square-foot building contains operational care for the animals, reclaimed water systems, and mechanical operations, including solar and geothermal energy, surrounded by 4,500 square feet of recreated natural habitat. Over 90% of waste was diverted from landfills, making this a nearly zero waste project.
“We are thrilled to be recognized for building John Ball Zoo’s vision for their Pygmy Hippo Habitat and meeting their mission of conserving wild places,” said Troy Redman, Director of Construction, Commercial Construction at Wolverine Building Group. “We are honored to receive this award from Procore, showcasing the talent and expertise of Wolverine among our peers across the national construction landscape.”
Wolverine Building Group, who blended the Construction Management and Design Assist processes to achieve JBZ project goals, has achieved multiple LEED certifications in its 83-year commercial construction history and attained SITES Gold Certification for the Meerkat Habitat built in 2019.
“It’s essential to our industry and our community to approach construction with the values of the Living Building Challenge,” said David Paquet, Project Manager for Wolverine Building Group. “This project illustrated that sustainable building is achievable with the right vision and a skilled, collaborative team.”
- Owner/Developer: John Ball Zoo
- Contractor: Wolverine Building Group
- Architects: TowerPinkster, CLR Design, Moore+Bruggink
- Sustainability: Catalyst Partners
