Monterey Bay Aquarium Rendering

Ocean Institute

Dana Point, CA

  • Client
  • Ocean Institute
  • Team
  • Travis Wood — Lead Designer
  • Split Rock Studios — Design/Fabrication
  • Acorn Group — Content Development
  • Size
  • 4,200 square feet

Nationally known for its hands-on marine science, environmental and ocean education, and maritime history programs, the new exhibits at Ocean Institute needed to excite both visitors and staff. Exhibits explore California marine ecosystems just off the shore from Dana Point, as well as remote deep sea environments. Visitors discover not only iconic California species, but also learn about microscopic forams threatened by climate change and ocean acidification.

Ocean Institute exterior rendering Ocean Institute exterior rendering
MAKING A SPLASH | The exterior of the building is transformed into an underwater kelp forest scene, visible both inside and out. Day/night studies ensured the desired effect was achieved. (Tap or hover over image to view.)
Ocean Institute Rendering
KELP FOREST | California’s quintessential marine environment is represented in stunning detail in the entry lobby. The design uses the high ceilings to full effect with kelp strands soaring above visitors’ heads. An encrusted reef encases a 500-gallon saltwater aquarium with additional smaller aquaria hidden within the rockwork. Since the Ocean Institute also serves as a school, careful consideration was also given to balancing public/private spaces.
Ocean Institute exterior rendering Ocean Institute exterior rendering
LEARNING THROUGH PLAY | An outdoor play space gives younger visitors a chance to climb and play in a sensory rich larger-than-life tidepool filled with native California species. Working with a local artist, the wall around the playscape is adorned with a custom mosaic frieze. Dockside, a historic naturalist lab explores some of the cultural and natural history of the area.
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