Sobela Ocean Aquarium
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
Kansas City, Missouri
A new aquarium destination is connecting a million people a year to the wonders of the ocean without having to leave the Midwest. The Kansas City Zoo recently opened the Sobela Ocean Aquarium, a world-class facility that is home to nearly 8000 animals in 34 habitats, and the compelling story of the oceans starts outside.
The plants at the front entry mimic the look and feel of ocean tide pools, with sedums standing in for anemones. The entry was also designed as the centerpiece of an event space for 250, with open space, seating areas and shade for events. Outside the terrace you see conifers and other deciduous trees that mimic the Pacific Northwest you can see from the Sea Otter exhibit inside, connecting the architecture to the landscape.
The aquarium’s location in the center of the property provided an opportunity to connect and engage visitors on all four sides. Beautifully landscaped terraces, lush natural plantings and green infrastructure (stormwater basin and raingarden) are all integral to the site, each presenting the Zoo with a teaching tool to advance their educational and conservation mission.
