Seattle Aquarium Ocean Pavilion

Guided by an ethos of interconnectivity and mutual care, the Seattle Aquarium Ocean Pavilion expands the Aquarium’s campus on Piers 59 and 60, creating a sustainable hub that connects downtown Seattle, Pike Place Market, the revitalized waterfront, and Elliott Bay.

The curving pavilion integrates with its urban site, offering sweeping views and public access through features like an iconic oculus and rooftop plaza. Inside, the 50,000-square-foot building houses immersive exhibits, hands-on exploration, and the 500,000-gallon Reef habitat, highlighting the interplay between humans and the ocean. The design invites visitors to experience both front- and back-of-house spaces, reinforcing the Aquarium’s One Ocean ethic. Developed in close collaboration with Coast Salish tribes, the project honors Indigenous heritage and prioritizes sustainability through innovative material choices, electrification, and water-saving strategies.