Oregon Zoo

Case Study

The Client

The Oregon Zoo is one of the Pacific Northwest’s most beloved destinations, welcoming thousands of visitors each year while caring for a diverse range of animals. When the Zoo sought to improve comfort, energy efficiency, and overall ambiance in several of its administrative and public areas, they partnered with Valley Shades for a customized window treatment solution. Our goal was to deliver products that balanced aesthetics, performance, and sustainability—while aligning with the Zoo’s mission of environmental stewardship.

Decorative wall art with nature scene and wildlife, including a bear, butterfly, eagle, mountains, trees, and flowers, with the text 'Together for Wildlife' amidst a glass-walled indoor setting.

The Problem

Valley Shades began by conducting on-site assessments to understand how light moved through each space. We collaborated closely with Zoo staff to identify areas with the most significant temperature and glare concerns. From there, we selected high-performance solar shades designed to manage heat and light while maintaining outward visibility and a clean, modern aesthetic. Our installation team worked efficiently to minimize disruption to daily operations, ensuring each shade was precisely fitted for long-term reliability.

An office space with desks, computers, office chairs, and large windows showing trees outside. There are some cardboard boxes on the floor.

Our Approach

Many of the Zoo’s existing spaces experienced issues with glare, heat buildup, and inconsistent lighting throughout the day. The challenge was finding a solution that would enhance comfort for staff and visitors without disrupting the natural light crucial to the facility’s welcoming atmosphere. In addition, the Zoo needed a system that would stand up to high-traffic environments and meet sustainability standards.

Interior of a modern dining or meeting area with tables and chairs, large windows, hanging colorful lamps, gray acoustic panels on the wall, and a door leading outside.

The Outcome

The completed project provided a noticeable improvement in comfort and energy efficiency across the Zoo’s targeted areas. The new shades reduce glare and solar heat gain, creating a more pleasant environment for both employees and guests. Beyond functionality, the updated look complements the Zoo’s modern facilities and reinforces its commitment to sustainable design practices. The Oregon Zoo now benefits from a solution that’s as practical as it is environmentally conscious—perfectly aligned with its values and visitor experience goals.

Interior view of an office space with workstations, cubicles, and people working at desks. The ceiling has skylights and a sloped design, with wooden and white elements.
Interior of a modern, empty cafe or lounge with white walls, gray chairs, tables, and hanging light fixtures.
A hallway in an office or gallery with framed black-and-white photos on the left wall, a gray carpeted floor, and a sloped ceiling with skylights. People are visible at the far end and at the seating area on the right.
Interior of an office or lounge area with a patterned carpet, modern chairs, and a wall featuring a sign for Oregon Zoo with a tree logo.
Office space with desks, chairs, and computer monitors, windows at the background, ceiling lights, and a couch on the side.
Two men standing in a brightly lit room near a window, smiling at the camera. One is holding a pair of shoes. An orange ladder is partially visible on the left side of the image.