The concept of the Audubon Zoo new entry was to give the visitor a sense of arrival into a faunistic environment while addressing functional needs. As one approaches the new entry, the experience begins by passing under a large raised planter containing lush landscaping and a colorful three-dimensional entry sign.

Palm trees, banners, special lighting and the background sound of animals also enhance the arrival experience.

The ticket booths and alley of 25-ft. Medjool Palm trees form a visual centerline to the heart of the zoo that features larger than life elephant and hippopotamus sculptures spouting water into a circular water basin.

Once through the ticketing area, the visitor flows into the Arrival Court, which provides areas for seating, public restrooms, food concessions and stroller rentals. A major feature of the Arrival Court is a lushly planted Flamingo Exhibit with playful waterfalls flowing from an artificial rock outcropping.

The Audubon Zoo new entry complex has proven to be functionally successful, while giving the visitor a playful, exciting, adventurous experience in unique setting. With its heavy timber trusses, decking and clock feature, the entry complex creates a whimsical, playful environment while incorporating the same architectural elements found throughout the zoo. Functionally, the design not only addresses visitor needs, but also incorporates much needed office and membership sale space for employees.

Columbia Theater for the Performing Arts

Architect: Holly & Smith Architects, Hammond
Location: Hammond
Cost: $4 million
Design Team: Michael F. Holly, Jeffrey K. Smith, Geoff Gjertson & Chris Bankston
General Contractor: Ordak General Contractors Inc., Slidell

Saving the historic 1928 Columbia Theater in downtown Hammond and creating a modern performing arts and conference center were the primary goals given to Holly & Smith Architects by a cooperative venture composed of state, city and Southeastern Louisiana University entities.

The building, vacant for 15 years, was slated for demolition if not for the tenacity of local officials from the Downtown Development District and the university. The missing pieces of the puzzle fell into place when the neighboring property owners of the theater also contributed to the endeavor by selling and donating portions of their property.

The previously inadequate lobby and support spaces within the theater will be increased and designed to accommodate the demands of a modern, multi-functional arts facility. The house auditorium will also be renovated with sensitivity to the original plaster molding and trim, while meeting current code and sight line requirements.

The theater accommodates 950 patrons and the adjacent conference center will offer up to three separate meeting areas for several hundred individuals. With the expanded storage area, dressing rooms and other support facilities, the Columbia Theater for the Performing Arts will be able to host drama and music events, as well as community theater groups, traveling music acts and ultimately small Broadway productions.

The restored sidewalk awning, the expanded three-story-high lobby and monumental stairs into the theater will restore and enhance the original ceremonial promenade and grandeur of the Roaring '20s.