An exhibit of aquatic life designed from the inside out

Key Features

A temporary solution with a finished look

Design calibrated for maximum interaction between guests, animal care experts, docents, and animals

An aquarium exhibit that tells the story of The Academy

The Need

While the California Academy of Sciences awaited construction of their new home in Golden Gate Park, they needed a temporary aquarium exhibit where they could grow their living collection. They also wanted to showcase the institution’s story of conservation and stewardship. Another goal was to leverage the interaction among guests, staff, and animals through discoveries stimulated by the exhibition.

The Approach

The design team accepted the opportunity to go beyond constructing an attractive environment and reimagined the experience by turning the traditional aquarium inside out. Instead of hiding the back-of-house animal care, the design moved those activities out into the open, incorporating see-through tank walls that required staff to access the exhibits from the public space. Added vantage points were created by incorporating supplemental windows that encouraged new possibilities for exploration. This newfound interaction among guests, staff, and animals enriched the guest experience through increased connections and discoveries.