CASE STUDY: JACKSONILLE ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDENS
Interpretive Signage
& The Phoebe Project
A zoo-wide interpretive initiative that strengthened conservation storytelling through thoughtful design, accessible learning, and collaborative problem solving.
Project Snapshot
Opened: December 2025
Location: Jacksonville, Florida
Budget: Approximately $150,000 USD
• Graphic Production
• Interactive Experiences
• Educational Tactiles
Services Used
• Interpretive Planning
• Content Development
• Copywriting
• Graphic Design
The Opportunity
Jacksonville Zoo & Botanical Gardens sought to elevate conservation messaging across the guest experience while advancing the goals of its Interpretive Master Plan. Working within a fixed budget and a firm timeline, the project required a flexible approach that could evolve alongside the zoo's priorities.
Little Ray's Approach
As the project developed, we worked closely with the zoo to shape a scope that balanced educational goals, visitor engagement, budget, and schedule.
Together we:
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Designed more than 100 interpretive signs and exhibit posts.
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Developed two interactive game stations that encourage learning through play.
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Created tactile educational experiences for the Wild Florida herpetarium.
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Crafted engaging interpretive messaging that connects visitors with conservation in meaningful ways.
The Partnership
Great interpretation begins with understanding both the institution and its audience. By working collaboratively throughout the project, we created solutions that aligned educational goals with operational realities while remaining engaging, accessible, and practical to implement.
Design Highlights
One Connected Story
A cohesive visual language and interpretive strategy help visitors discover consistent conservation messages throughout the zoo.
Learning Through Interaction
Interactive games and tactile experiences encourage guests of all ages and abilities to engage with wildlife through exploration and play.
Designed to Deliver
An evolving project scope, fixed budget, and compressed timeline demanded thoughtful collaboration and creative problem solving from start to finish.
Project
Highlights
100+
custom interpretive signs
Two
interactive learning stations
Educational
tactile experiences for Wild Florida
Delivered
on time and within budget
Results
Completed on time and on budget, the project strengthened the zoo's visitor experience while laying the foundation for continued collaboration. The partnership has since expanded into additional opportunities to work together.
