Prize(s) Winners in Visitor Experience & Museum Exhibition
Lighting Design/Product Company Flux Studio
Lead Designers Glenn Shrum, Florencia Castro
Architecture Company Studio Hanson Roberts, Lake Flato
Client Houston Zoo
Photo Credits Tom McConnell, Sue Chin, Flux Studio
Completion Date 4/7/2023
Project Location Houston, TX, USA
Entry DescriptionThe lighting design for this aquarium exhibit reinforces the qualities of various simulated Galápagos Islands environments. “Under sky”, the lighting facilitates eye adaptation for visitors’ transition from high ambient light conditions outdoors. As visitors descend "under earth," accent lighting and dramatic shadows accentuate rugged rock formations, evoking the Galápagos’ volcanic caves and lava tunnels. In the “underwater" zone, carefully calibrated lighting approaches create the sensation of being beneath the ocean, bringing visitors face-to-face with the archipelago’s vibrant marine life. A faceted, undulating mirrored ceiling evokes reflections experienced under the water’s surface. Narrow accent lighting simulates “god rays” at the reef tank, and light spectra are calibrated to provide good color rendering while minimizing wavelengths that promote algae growth. Lighting gradually becomes darker and bluer toward the back of the tank, creating the illusion of infinite depth.
Throughout the exhibit, lighting equipment is concealed from view to maintain the impression of a natural environment. Front lighting behind viewing windows illuminates approaching animals and minimizes reflections. Integrated lighting at small-scale exhibits simulates the photoperiods and spectral composition of daylight to balance animal welfare needs with the visitor experience.
Sustainability ApproachA commitment to sustainability was central to our lighting design approach, and to the design intent of the exhibit itself. Long life LED sources are used throughout the project, reducing the need for frequent maintenance. Lighting approaches are calibrated to achieve the exhibit design intent without overlighting. Integrated lighting at small-scale exhibits simulates the photoperiods and spectral composition of daylight to balance animal welfare needs with the visitor experience. High ambient light levels in the Call to Action assist with eye adaptation before visitors leave the exhibit, while custom-detailed linear lighting highlights graphics that encourage participation in Galápagos preservation efforts.
