Toledo Zoo

A long-standing tradition at the Toledo Zoo, originally built in the 1930s and named the Museum of Science, what is now known as the ProMedica Museum of Natural History underwent massive renovations beginning in 2017 and was entirely redesigned to create more sensory and tangible experiences. The exhibit, which opened on May 31, allows visitors to take part in immersive ecosystems, participatory and experienced-based attractions that highlight biodiversity and free-roaming animal species such as birds, butterflies and more.

Reynolds Polymer Technology was selected to engineer, install and supply 13 acrylic panels for the renovation. Within the museum, Sturgeon Touch Tank, Wetland and Stream exhibits will be fitted with varying sized acrylic panels to complement the enterprising and sensory-focused designs. Sturgeon Touch Tank’s acrylic panels are designed to be the largest continuous vertical bond of the project measuring nearly 20 feet in length. The rest of the exhibits range in size and include both curved and flat panels. Reynolds Polymer Technology worked closely with the Buehrer Group to ensure cohesiveness and quality across all architecture and engineering plans.

Our highly engineered acrylic panels allowed Toledo Zoo to transform this space from the traditional zoo or museum experience to one that further engages visitors and embraces multiple senses. The work we produce truly transports attendees into a new realm of possibilities and education. The ProMedica Museum of Natural History revitalization project is a perfect example of how institutions are evolving to include inventive and cutting-edge design to further merge learning with memorable experiences.