The Living Desert
Creating Inviting and Informational Spaces with Design
Desert Plant Conservation Center
One of the first projects I tackled was the Desert Plant Conservation Center, a vital space for conservation planting efforts, public education, and the care of rare and native desert plant life in the Coachella Valley. This multifaceted project required me to organize and present complex information through clear and impactful signage, both inside and outside the center. It was a rewarding challenge to balance functionality with aesthetic appeal, ensuring the space served the needs of both visitors and the volunteer staff who care for these valuable plants.
Gecko Gulch: Kid’s Play Park
I had the exciting opportunity to refresh the look and feel of Gecko Gulch, a newly renovated play park at The Living Desert designed for kids to learn and explore. Bright, engaging colors were chosen to align with the Zoo’s brand standards, transforming the space into a vibrant and fun environment where children could discover desert wildlife.
Signage Mockups
As part of this project, I illustrated the Namib Sand Gecko featured on the main welcome sign. Initially, I created an illustration of a gecko species that wasn’t native to desert ecosystems. After receiving feedback, I adjusted gears to align with the Zoo’s focus on desert species, illustrating the Namib Sand Gecko instead. This process taught me the importance of aligning creative work with organizational branding and mission. Using the Procreate app on my iPad, I brought the gecko to life with vibrant colors, ensuring the final illustration seamlessly matched the overall design. The cohesive visuals helped create an engaging and immersive experience throughout Gecko Gulch.
Crested Gecko Illustration
Namib Sand Gecko Illustration
Wild Prairies
Wild Prairies is a captivating walkthrough experience showcasing the interconnected ecosystems of grasslands, including their unique plants and wildlife. I had the privilege of designing the visual identity for this space, ensuring it was both inviting and educational. One of my favorite elements was incorporating the iconic prairie dog into the logo, adding a playful and memorable touch to the experience.
Logo and Color Palette
The main signage design features magnetic animal IDs, allowing for flexible updates while minimizing waste. This is one of the many environmental initiatives I implemented throughout the zoo, aimed at reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
