Toronto Zoo
TORONTO ZOO, TORONTO
Committed to conservation, education, and research, the Toronto Zoo is a diverse zoological park that spans 710 acres. Home to over 5,000 animals representing more than 450 species, the Zoo is divided into various themed regions, including the Indo-Malaya, Africa, Americas, and Tundra Trek, showcasing animals in habitats that mimic their natural environments.
Since 1974, the Toronto Zoo has undertaken numerous projects to expand and enhance facilities, exhibits, and infrastructure. However, the wayfinding system, with fixtures installed at various times, did not keep pace with these changes, leading to conflicting information and confusion for guests. KDA was tasked with designing a wayfinding master plan to create a consistent and visually harmonious design language that would thread through the entire Zoo, effectively connecting its various regions while addressing the challenge of navigating the expansive grounds.
By implementing a cohesive and thoughtful design language across all signage and branding elements, the wayfinding master plan not only supported functional aspects of navigation but also infused an element of fun and engagement into the overall guest experience.
Toronto Zoo has worked with KDA in developing a new wayfinding system with a forward-thinking analysis considering the Zoo’s Mission and Vision, goals and objectives, existing structures, site conditions, financial sustainability, conservation, education, visitor experience, and future plans.
60+ Custom-designed Animal Icons
As an exciting and engaging visual wayfinding tool, KDA created more than 60 custom-designed animal icons, one of the most comprehensive series world-wide. Carefully nuanced, often to capture a singular, distinguishing trait, the icons celebrate and communicate the diversity of animals. Eight of the icons serve as ambassadors for the Zoo’s distinct geographical regions.
Skillfully navigating 1.3 million guests annually
By thoughtfully incorporating design elements such as signage, cartography, iconography, placemaking, and colour-coding, the wayfinding master plan creates a seamless and user-friendly navigation system catering to the Zoo’s annual 1.3 million visitors. Skillful placement of signs and informative graphics enhances visitor orientation, simplifying the process of locating specific animal regions, attractions, and amenities.
Iconography
Integration
