LDL Studio, in collaboration with The Mills Group and the Oglebay team, was engaged to develop a new boutique lodging experience adjacent to the P. Good Zoo's highly anticipated West Pridelands Lion Exhibit.
The vision for the project was to create a distinctive overnight destination that would immerse guests in the excitement of the zoo while providing the comfort and amenities of a premium boutique hotel. Drawing inspiration from traditional African safari camps and luxury tented lodges, LDL Studio developed a contemporary architectural language that translates the spirit of safari accommodations into a permanent, all-season hospitality experience.
The proposed development consists of twelve guest rooms organized within a series of prefabricated modular structures positioned along a sloping wooded hillside overlooking the new lion habitat. The modular approach allows the project to be efficiently constructed as a kit-of-parts system while minimizing site disturbance and preserving the natural character of the landscape.
Each module is designed as a two-level accommodation unit, featuring an upper guest room and lower guest room connected through a shared architectural form. Between the modular buildings, private outdoor guest terraces are inserted into the landscape, creating intimate gathering spaces complete with fire pits and seating areas. These outdoor rooms provide guests with opportunities to relax, enjoy views across the zoo campus, and experience the surrounding environment throughout the day and evening.
The architectural expression features matte-black standing seam metal cladding, expansive black steel-framed glazing, and warm natural wood interiors inspired by the materials and atmosphere of traditional safari lodges. Large glazed gable ends frame views into the surrounding landscape while creating bright and welcoming guest accommodations.
The West Lion Boutique Hotel represents a unique addition to Oglebay's growing collection of destination lodging experiences, offering visitors the rare opportunity to stay within the zoo environment while enjoying direct access to one of the park's signature new exhibits.
Currently slated for construction in 2027, the project positions Oglebay and the P. Good Zoo at the forefront of immersive wildlife-based hospitality experiences. LDL Studio serves as the Interior Design Firm for the project, working closely with The Mills Group and Oglebay to create a memorable guest destination that blends architecture, nature, and wildlife into a singular resort experience.
Project Team
Owner: Wheeling Park Commission / Oglebay Resort
Design Partner & Architect of Record: The Mills Group
Interior Design: LDL Studio, Inc.