Architecture Breathes New Life into Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium
Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium is undergoing a new renovation phase. The focus is on reorganizing spaces to honor its historic role. The redesign balances the building’s classic character with contemporary architectural solutions. These updates support exhibit needs and improve the care of aquatic life.
Visitor Flow and Interior Architecture
The main entrance has been redesigned to improve circulation. It features a two story lobby with escalators alongside a wavelike wall that adds visual movement. The ceiling holds 1,600 suspended ceramic fish, creating an immersive entry. The central rotunda, the heart of the classical building, serves as the focal point for movement throughout the aquarium. These changes improve visitor flow while preserving the historic structure.
Exhibit Design and Aquatic Spaces
The centerpiece of the new phase is the Wonder of Water exhibit, featuring two curved tanks:
- One displays freshwater plants and animals, arranged to allow visitors to observe natural interactions.
- The other showcases a saltwater ecosystem with live coral, with careful attention to lighting and ventilation to maintain a sustainable aquatic environment.
The architectural design emphasizes detail, combining aesthetic appeal with functional considerations to ensure both animal welfare and an enhanced visitor experience.
Balancing Heritage and Modernity
The renovation preserves the classic character of the building while integrating modern design elements that improve both visual and navigational experiences. Every corner is crafted to create a sense of immersion, connecting visitors directly with the aquatic world, making the architecture itself an integral part of the educational and exploratory experience.
✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight
The Shedd Aquarium renovation in Chicago demonstrates a clear architectural focus on improving interior circulation and visitor experience within a historic building. The redesign features a two story lobby, escalators, and a wavelike wall adorned with 1,600 suspended ceramic fish, creating a dynamic visual space that connects visitors to the aquatic exhibits. Yet, questions arise whether these interventions fully redefine the relationship between visitors and the historic environment, particularly given prior expansions. Nevertheless, the project highlights architecture’s capacity to integrate functionality and aesthetics sustainably, offering a model for renewing heritage buildings while considering both animal welfare and guest experience.
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