Insight into the world of the oceans, Ozeanium, Basel

Due to the underground arrangement of a large part of the exhibition, the visible structure can respond to the location on a corresponding scale. The building is anchored and related to the city via cantilevers, slight curves, and targeted perforations. Due to the chosen architectural concept, the Ozeanium appears monolithic and mysterious to the outside. Use is only partially disclosed via the openings. The visitor is invited to embark on a journey of discovery. The architecture tries to honor the way through the oceans with a special materialization.

The environment is deliberately kept dark to not distract from the aquariums and provide focus for the visitors' view resulting in the observer getting the impression of walking in the great depths of the seas. With increasing height in the building, the lighting concept becomes finer, brighter, and closer to the earth.

The scattered light of the aquariums and the individually placed lights are sufficient to ensure the legibility of the premises, as well as orientation and safety.

The restrained lighting concept opens and exposes the view of the oceans.

Client

Zoologischer Garten, Basel

Architecture

Boltshauser Architects, Zurich

Completion

2023

Tags

Leisure