The Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s expansion will transform the current reputation of a small rescue and rehabilitation center into a premier destination for the area. The conversion of a nearby abandoned building will provide a perfect venue to elevate the aquarium into one of the most impressive aquarium attractions in the nation. Inspired by the architectural character of the current expansion plans of the existing aquarium, orange planes wrap around the entrance and atrium spaces creating a implied connection between the new and existing facility. A special aspect of the new aquarium will be the main entrance atrium that connects all levels of the aquarium. The new aquarium will be home to fascinating animals not only from around the southwest Florida, but from all over the world. It will allow local visitors to experience underwater environments in ways that would be seemingly impossible. The centerpiece of the aquarium is a two-story Tropical Seas exhibit that presents the colorful animals that inhabit large coral reefs around the world. This exhibit will be able to be viewed from various unique angles: From the main level of the aquarium, from a suspended tunnel that travels through the center of the tank, and from the special events space on the upper level.