Cambridge Seven Associates was responsible for the planning, programming, architecture, and exhibit design for this major new aquarium, the centerpiece of Expo 1998 in Lisbon, Portugal. Located on the Tagus River, the 214,000 sf aquarium is comprised of stone piers, steel masts, and cables supporting a roof of glass sheets. Inside, the Oceanário presents coastal habitats of the four major oceans. From each habitat, Cambridge Seven`s architectural design allows for views into the 1.22 million gallon main tank, home to pelagic species and schooling fishes. On the second floor, the underwater portions of the habitats visually merge with the waters of the central tank, giving visitors the illusion of seeing a single vast ocean.
