Diagram
Ciudad Victoria Aquarium
Status
In Progress
Description
Design concepts for the new Ciudad Victoria Aquarium and Natural Science Museum (TAMux) are based upon a holistic sustainable approach incorporating the contributions of various cultural and environmental potentials of the region. This approach is in keeping with the strong emphasis the state of Tamaulipas places upon its’ rich and diverse natural resources and stewardship role within the local and global ecological community. The new building will be a state of the art facility that will serve as an iconic reminder of how natural environment and built environment can be mutually beneficial. We envision a project that would redefine the state of Tamaulipas; in showcasing the rich and diverse natural resources found within the state and becoming a preeminent destination for tourists, nature lovers, a learning environment for school children and conservationists alike. The project should aim for the highest sustainable vision, employ a wide range of guiding principles, and stand as an embodiment of the state’s economic, environment and social planning. A vibrant, sustainable project aims to balance between environmental impact and natural resources degradation, social welfare and quality of life, and economic growth and viability.
The Aquarium building is designed with simple geometry, a circle, with varied perforations imposed on the façade dictated by natural path of the sun. The building is envisioned to be an intelligent, living mechanism, emulating nature in her cycles of regeneration. The north façade is designed to have larger perforations to allow for view toward the Sierra Madre Oriental mountain range and allow for indirect north light into the Education space and Offices. At the south façade, the building transforms into a more opaque facade to reduce natural light and undesirable heat gain. The relative darkness is designed to be suitable for viewing of the various aquatic tanks. The contemporary façade balances innovation with memories of traditional architecture in this region. The façade is envisioned to be made of precast concrete or other recycled materials, with glass infill at openings. The roof will have large open air openings and/or skylights to target specific needs of the spaces inside. Open air openings could substantially reduce the lighting and energy needs for the various exhibit components, especially the large Gulf of Mexico tank.
The Aquarium building is designed with simple geometry, a circle, with varied perforations imposed on the façade dictated by natural path of the sun. The building is envisioned to be an intelligent, living mechanism, emulating nature in her cycles of regeneration. The north façade is designed to have larger perforations to allow for view toward the Sierra Madre Oriental mountain range and allow for indirect north light into the Education space and Offices. At the south façade, the building transforms into a more opaque facade to reduce natural light and undesirable heat gain. The relative darkness is designed to be suitable for viewing of the various aquatic tanks. The contemporary façade balances innovation with memories of traditional architecture in this region. The façade is envisioned to be made of precast concrete or other recycled materials, with glass infill at openings. The roof will have large open air openings and/or skylights to target specific needs of the spaces inside. Open air openings could substantially reduce the lighting and energy needs for the various exhibit components, especially the large Gulf of Mexico tank.