The New England Aquarium’s mission emphasizes the interdependencies of the human world and the world of water. While the original concrete building by Cambridge 7 Associates focused on its mysterious interior exhibits, the renewed facility celebrates its harbor-side location with stainless steel and glass additions. As with water, surfaces are shiny and reflective, responding to the daylight, or transparent to allow views inside. The design required coordinating approvals from city, state and federal agencies.

Recognition:
Honor Award, Citation, Boston Society of Architects
Merit Award, Build Massachusetts, Associated General Contractors of Massachusetts

“Fresh and playful as a porpoise, it feels exactly right for where and what it is. It calls attention to itself. You’ve never seen shapes quite like this.”

— Robert Campbell, FAIA, for the Boston Globe

Collaborators

Structural Engineer: Simpson Gumpertz & Heger
Structural Engineer: Weidlinger Associates
Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing Engineer: Syska & Hennessy
Civil Engineer: Nitsch Engineering
Exhibit Designer: Lyons/Zaremba, Inc.
Traffic: Cambridge Systematics
General Contractor: Beacon/Skanska
Photographer: © Matt Wargo

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New England Aquarium

Boston, Massachusetts

Collaborators