National Aquarium
Baltimore, MD

Completion Phase 1, Fall 2007
Size 1800, GSF
Cost: $20,000

The Center for Aquatic Life and Conservation is a facility that will support the National Aquarium’s growing animal collection and expanding programs in animal husbandry, conservation education, research, and exhibit design. The adaptive re-use of a 149,000 SF Department of Public Works Garage will allow for the expansion and consolidation of these programs and the 19.6 acre site on the Middle Branch of the Patapsco River will be transformed into a conservation demonstration park featuring wetland habitats, on-site storm water management, and urban demonstration gardens.

With a total tank capacity of 435,000 gallons, the building will support the Aquarium’s diverse collection of fish, birds, reptiles, amphibians and marine mammals as well as their Marine Animal Rescue Program. Ayers/Saint/Gross is working in close collaboration with the Aquarium’s curators and scientists to ensure that their high standards of animal care are achieved.

Ayers/Saint/Gross's design solution embraces environmentally sustainable strategies for managing aquatic waste water, managing storm water, bioremediation of brownfield conditions, wetlands restoration, interior day-lighting and energy conservation. The project will be designed to achieve LEED certification.