Discovery Cove

The New York Aquarium originated with a single notable building in 1955. Lacking a coherent master plan, it developed as a jumble of disparate structures over the next 60 years. We envisioned this project as an opportunity to create an indoor/outdoor exhibition to anchor the southern edge of this sprawling complex. A new linear pool is designed to be a central feature that links the Discovery Cove building to adjacent structures. Entry bridges span the pool providing overlooks to stingrays swimming below. The new exhibit building adopts an angled configuration that juts over the water like the prow of a boat. Inside, angled walls suggest the perspective distortions experienced under water. Beneath a raised floor, the utility infrastructure lends flexibility to changing exhibits. An upper level catwalk enables maintenance of the habitats.