The entry complex to the New Zoo in Kansas City presents a lesson in sustainable, environmentally aware design. The lighting design goal was to balance daylight and electric light so that the electric light would only supplement the daylight, not duplicate it. Since the daylight was so plentiful, the electric lighting was designed for nighttime functions, minimizing the amount of equipment and lowering energy costs. Work spaces also incorporate natural lighting where indirect fluorescent lighting supplements the natural light to provide adequate task lighting. The open design minimizes the need for supplemental lighting. The building is an example of environmentally responsible design that demonstrates that energy efficiency can be economical as well as aesthetically pleasing.

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