What does The Portico Group do?
Chuck: Our firm does unusual work. We’re a diverse group of about 25 creative people who have gathered together to practice architecture, landscape architecture, exhibit design, and interpretive planning. We work collaboratively—there are no stars. Everyone here is a great resource. While we do design regular buildings (such as houses and libraries) and sites (such as gardens and parks), what we’re really known for is our ability in designing environments and places for informal learning, such as zoos, aquariums, visitors’ centers, botanical gardens, and nature centers. Our projects are intended to enrich the public’s understanding of and engagement with the natural and urban world around them. We’ve designed projects from Alaska to New Zealand, for clients ranging from the City of Los Angeles to the National Audubon Society to the Nike Corporation.