Henning Larsen Architects wins Batumi Aquarium in Georgia

Henning Larsen Architects has won first prize for its significant concept for a new aquarium in the Georgian seaport of Batumi.

Inspired by the characteristic pebbles continually shaped by the wash of the waves of the Batumi beach the building stands out as an iconic rock formation visible from both land and sea. The formation constitutes four self-supporting exhibition areas where each of the four stones represents a unique marine biotype.

The 2,000 m2 building will compose a modern, cultural aquarium offering visitors an educational, entertaining and visually stimulating journey through the different seas. The central, multipurpose space in connection with the aquarium features a café and retail functions and its flexible layout makes it well-suited for presentations and workshops.

Unfolding around the aquarium, a landscape of different sea archipelagos provides attractive opportunities for innovative outdoor research and learning as well as informal meetings along the beachfront. Its significant expression inspired by nature will not only make Batumi Aquarium a spectacular new landmark in Georgia but also a state-of-the-art contribution to exploring life underneath the sea.

Location: Batumi in the Republic of Georgia
Client: Association A.T.U
Gross Floor Area: 2,000 m2
Type of assignment: First prize in invited competition
Location:       Batumi in the Republic of Georgia
Client:         Association A.T.U.
Gross floor area:       2,000 m2
Year of design:         2010 - 2010
Type of assignment:     First prize in invited competition
Location:       Batumi in the Republic of Georgia
Client:         Association A.T.U.
Gross floor area:       2,000 m2
Year of design:         2010 - 2010
Type of assignment:     First prize in invited competition
Project team from Henning Larsen Architects includes Louis Becker (design director, partner) Anders Park (project manager), Viggo Haremst (design responsible), Michael Sørensen and Jaewoo Chun.