The New England Aquarium in Boston opened in 1967 and became a precedent-setting prototype for many future aquariums. It is a phenomenal tourist draw in its urban waterfront setting; an educational resource serving its community and region; and an early example of Cambridge Seven's ability to offer both entertainment and education through experiential design, integrating exhibits and architecture. This unique institution is credited with a major role in the redevelopment of Boston's waterfront.
Constructed, June 20, 1969
CambridgeSeven provided site planning, architecture, exhibit design, and all interior design for the original New England Aquarium building as well as for several expansion projects.
Interior Renovation, 2013
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After more than forty years of continuous operation, New England Aquarium’s “Giant Ocean Tank” (GOT) received a major update to facilitate memorable visits for decades to come. The original Aquarium, designed by CambridgeSeven, began the modern aquarium movement and has become the standard for aquarium immersion experiences. The GOT is considered to be the feature around which that acclaimed experience is set. The renovation also includes new lighting and graphics at the perimeter of the tank as well as a new domed lighting effect to intensify the immersion. While the GOT is 23 feet deep with only 200,000 gallons of saltwater, it continues to be the renewed heart of the Aquarium and a significant factor for why NEAq attracts more than a million visitors per year.
Its omnidirectional vertical descent around a Caribbean coral reef is as close to a dive experience as possible without getting wet
New features include larger state-of–the art windows, new bridge accesibility at the top and a completely new lighting design to highlight the new habitat and marine life
New presentation platforms have also been introduced at the top, allowing for demonstrations and more visitor engagement
The renovation also includes new lighting and graphics at the perimeter of the tank as well as a new domed lighting effect to intensify the immersion
While the GOT is 23 feet deep with only 200,000 gallons of saltwater, it continues to be the renewed heart of the Aquarium and a significant factor for why NEAq attracts more than a million visitors per year
The original Aquarium, designed by CambridgeSeven, began the modern aquarium movement