Client
Merlin Entertainments
Location
Porto, Portugal
Awards

Situated along the Porto seafront, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the city park, the Sea Life Center is a dynamic space designed to engage visitors with the wonders of marine life. The building’s design reflects its purpose, with distinct architectural elements that correspond to the functions of the interior program.

The ground floor is characterized by an organic, undulating glass façade that mimics the fluidity of the sea, providing an immersive environment for exhibitions. Above, the second floor features a more regular form, housing the store, cafeteria, offices, and a playground. The building’s layout allows for a seamless transition between spaces while maintaining a strong connection to the surrounding environment.

A large balcony on the second floor offers visitors a chance to step outside and reconnect with the vast Atlantic Ocean, providing a breathtaking 180º view of the coastline. The second-floor façade is finished in glass tiles, chosen for their texture and color, which evoke the appearance of fish scales, further emphasizing the building’s ocean-inspired design. This project was designed in collaboration with architect Pedro Balonas.

Photo Credit: João Ferrand

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