Seattle Aquarium Ocean Pavilion

Ardurra designed Aquatic Life Support Systems for the Seattle Aquarium's Ocean Pavilion, featuring 500,000 gallons of exhibit space, seawater storage, and treatment systems that support world-class marine displays. The treatment infrastructure includes high-efficiency pumps, sand filters, UV sterilization, temperature control, ozone disinfection, and protein skimmers, with specialized degassing towers that provide essential biological bacterial integration and safe water deaeration.

The centerpiece 350,000-gallon Coral Canyon Exhibit, known as "The Reef," features an attached uniquely shaped acclimation tank, holding tank, amphitheater, and large overhead viewing oculus providing multiple viewpoints for unmatched reef community experiences. The design enables visitors to observe thriving reef communities from various perspectives while maintaining optimal habitat conditions.

Key Life Support System Features:

• Designed comprehensive systems for 500,000 gallons total capacity, including exhibits, seawater storage, and treatment infrastructure

• Engineered 350,000-gallon Coral Canyon Exhibit with attached acclimation tank, amphitheater, and overhead viewing oculus for immersive experiences

• Created Archipelago Exhibits featuring 20,000-gallon Coral Reef and 8,000-gallon Mangrove displays with multi-level viewing capabilities

• Implemented advanced treatment technologies, including high-efficiency pumps, sand filters, UV sterilization, ozone disinfection, and protein skimmers

• Integrated degassing towers providing essential biological bacteria integration and safe water deaeration before habitat reintroduction

• Designed a unique mangrove forest exhibit extending above the water surface with large acrylic windows providing multi-level interior viewing

• Developed temperature control systems, maintaining optimal conditions across diverse marine ecosystems and habitat requirements

The Ocean Pavilion's life support systems provide the Seattle Aquarium with exceptional marine display capabilities while ensuring optimal habitat conditions for diverse reef communities. Innovative exhibit design and advanced treatment technologies create immersive educational experiences while maintaining the highest standards of animal care and water quality management.