Smithsonian Institution, National Zoological Park Police Station and Pavilion

The Smithsonian Institution's National Zoological Park Police Station and Pavilion in Washington D.C. exemplifies sustainable architecture and functional design.

Project Partners

Cho Benn Holback + Associates

Cho Benn Holback + Associates excels in architecture, planning, and interior design with an innovative and sustainable approach. They specialize in education, cultural, and residential projects, ensuring excellence through collaborative design tailored to meet clients' unique needs.

Rhodeside & Harwell

Rhodeside & Harwell, established in 1986, is a distinguished landscape architecture and planning firm. Known for creating sustainable and innovative outdoor spaces across parks, campuses, and urban developments.

Used in this project

Site Furnishings

Project Details

Project Name: Smithsonian Institution, National Zoological Park Police Station and Pavilion
‍Location: Washington D.C., USA
‍Year: 2018
‍Architect:Cho Benn Holback + Associates
Landscape Architect:Rhodeside & Harwell
Firm (contractor): OFEO Office of Planning, Design & Construction
‍Product Used: Elevated Shade Screen Design

Press and Additional Resources

Smithsonian National Zoo Sustainability Information

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Press and Additional Resources

Smithsonian National Zoo Sustainability Information

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The Smithsonian Institution’s National Zoological Park Police Station and Pavilion in Washington D.C. represents a thoughtful balance of functionality, sustainability, and design excellence. Completed in 2018, this project demonstrates how architectural vision, material innovation, and environmental stewardship can come together to create a lasting public asset. Led by Cho Benn Holback + Associates, with landscape architecture by Rhodeside & Harwell, the design team set out to create a structure that would serve practical needs while harmonizing with the natural environment of the National Zoo. The new Police Station and Pavilion had to provide shade, shelter, and security while remaining welcoming to visitors. To achieve this, the design centered on an elevated shade screen that provides both visual identity and functional performance. A defining feature of the pavilion is its use of black locust wood, chosen for its exceptional durability and ecological advantages. Unlike many conventional materials, locust wood offers natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect damage, making it ideally suited for outdoor applications. The elevated shade screen, crafted with precision by Black Locust Lumber, illustrates the versatility and resilience of this remarkable species. This decision was not only practical but also symbolic, reinforcing the project’s alignment with ecological responsibility. The choice of locust wood also reflects a broader commitment to sustainability. Black locust is a rapidly growing North American hardwood that requires no chemical treatments to achieve its long lifespan, significantly reducing the environmental footprint of construction. For institutions and individuals interested in eco-conscious building practices, the Smithsonian project demonstrates why more designers and builders are seeking to buy black locust tree products for projects ranging from large-scale public spaces to residential applications. The Police Station and Pavilion achieved LEED Gold certification, highlighting the success of these sustainability-focused design decisions. The use of black locust wood minimized reliance on tropical hardwoods and eliminated the need for chemically treated lumber, while the structure itself integrates seamlessly with the zoo’s natural setting. The design ensures that the built environment enhances rather than disrupts the experience of visitors, creating an atmosphere that feels organic and connected to nature. The elevated shade screen is more than an architectural statement—it provides essential comfort for staff and visitors alike. Its natural tones blend effortlessly with the surrounding greenery, creating a sense of continuity between structure and landscape. Over time, the wood will weather gracefully, further enhancing the harmony of the space while maintaining its structural integrity thanks to the inherent durability of locust wood. This project demonstrates the growing recognition of black locust wood as a premier sustainable building material. Across North America and beyond, architects, contractors, and environmentally conscious homeowners are turning to black locust for decking, benches, cladding, and shade structures. Its unique combination of strength, longevity, and sustainability positions it as a superior alternative to less durable and less eco-friendly materials. By choosing black locust for this project, the Smithsonian Institution not only met immediate functional and aesthetic goals but also invested in long-term environmental responsibility. The Police Station and Pavilion stand as a benchmark for how public projects can prioritize sustainability without sacrificing design. The National Zoological Park Police Station and Pavilion show how architecture, material selection, and environmental goals can align to create a space that serves both people and the planet. With its innovative design and use of black locust wood, this project demonstrates that modern architecture can meet the highest standards of functionality, aesthetics, and ecological awareness. For those considering sustainable materials in their own work, the message is clear: when you buy black locust tree products, you are making a choice that supports durability, beauty, and environmental stewardship.