Carpenter Oak Creates Gorilla Gym at Bristol Zoo

Carpenter Oak, a timber framing company with nearly four decades of experience in traditional craftsmanship, has helped shape an exciting new chapter at Bristol Zoo with the creation of a bespoke Gorilla Gym – a dynamic series of enriching timber structures that support the zoo’s evolving conservation vision.

Carefully designed to mirror the gorillas’ natural habitat, the gym features elements that encourage natural behaviours like climbing, swinging, and social interaction – promoting the health and wellbeing of the troop.

Carpenter Oak’s expert design team has dedicated months to shaping a space that supports the physical and emotional needs of these powerful, intelligent animals. Crafted from sustainably sourced English Oak and Sweet Chestnut from nearby woodlands, the project also reflects our enduring commitment to sustainability.

To celebrate the build and help inspire the next generation of makers, Carpenter Oak welcomed students from St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Buckfastleigh for a special behind-the-scenes visit.

Located just across the road from the company’s South Devon yard, the school’s pupils were given a rare chance to step into the world of timber framing – meeting the skilled carpenters and witnessing first-hand how creativity, engineering, and conservation come together.

The visit sparked imaginations and offered real-world insight into sustainable design and environmental responsibility. Headteacher Sophie Kerswell described it as “a fantastic opportunity” that highlighted the thoughtful planning behind each element of the structure, designed with the gorillas’ welfare in mind.

Carpenter Oak says this collaboration between craft, conservation, and education celebrates more than just the future home of a remarkable animal community – it highlights the strength of local partnerships in shaping a more thoughtful, sustainable world.

It said it is proud to support the Bristol Zoo Project in their ongoing mission to protect endangered species and inspire future generations.

You can watch a YouTube video of the project here: Carpenter Oak x Bristol Zoo. Production by Transfixus Creative.

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