LDL Studio was engaged by the Wheeling Park Commission and Oglebay's Good Zoo to explore future exhibit opportunities as part of the Zoo's long-range strategic planning initiatives for 2028 and beyond.
The "Masters of the Burrow" concept was developed as an innovative immersive exhibit experience celebrating the fascinating world of mammals that live beneath the earth's surface. The exhibit is envisioned as a unique educational destination that introduces guests to species whose lives are largely hidden from view, including meerkats, groundhogs, prairie dogs, and other burrowing mammals from around the world.
The preliminary design proposes a 7,500-square-foot exhibit facility integrated directly into the surrounding landscape. The building's form emerged from the natural topography of the site, inspiring an earth-sheltered architectural solution that appears to rise organically from the terrain. Two planted landform roof structures create a highly sustainable building envelope while minimizing the visual impact of the facility within the park environment.
Designed as a forward-thinking net-zero facility, the concept explores opportunities for high-performance building systems, enhanced thermal efficiency, daylighting strategies, and sustainable operational practices. The vegetated roof structures provide both environmental benefits and a strong architectural identity, reinforcing the connection between the exhibit experience and the underground habitats being interpreted within.
The facility includes five immersive animal exhibit environments supported by dedicated back-of-house animal care spaces, veterinary support areas, keeper workrooms, life-support systems, food preparation facilities, and operational support functions. Large viewing areas, interpretive displays, and educational opportunities allow visitors to explore the hidden ecosystems and behaviors of burrowing species while promoting wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship.
The exhibit's dramatic entry sequence is framed between two earth-formed roof structures, creating a memorable arrival experience that invites guests into a world beneath the surface. Extensive glazing provides views into the exhibit lobby while connecting visitors to the surrounding landscape and reinforcing the relationship between architecture, habitat, and nature.
Masters of the Burrow represents a bold vision for the future of zoological exhibit design—combining immersive storytelling, sustainable architecture, animal welfare, and environmental education into a destination experience that enhances Oglebay's reputation as one of the region's premier wildlife attractions.