Pacific Seas Aquarium, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
Tacoma, WA
Business Type
Renovation and expansion of existing aquarium
Size
31,600 square feet
Architect
EHDD
Owner
Metro Parks of Tacoma
Progress Report
Pursuing 30% energy efficiency than code requirements
Pursuing 50% potable water efficiency than code requirements
The 100-year-old zoological park is the only combined zoo and aquarium in the Pacific Northwest. The new Pacific Seas renovation and expansion is one of the only all electric aquariums in the country, supporting clean energy for conservation.
Special Features
- 100% outside air system provides exceptional indoor air quality.
- Heat-recovery air-to-water heat pump and heat-pump recovery loop reduce energy and operational costs while providing effective heat exchange.
- Radiant floors provide active heating for guest comfort.
- Rainwater-reclamation system for flushing toilets, supporting water conservation.
- All electric heating eliminates the need for fossil-fuel gas boilers, which can impact the ocean's acidity.