This aquatic research center located in Melbourne Florida aspires to transform the way research and the community interacts. The Indian River Lagoon which the project sits on is the location of one of the most significant environmental disturbances caused by the continuous construction which turned what was once a natural shoreline into a series of retaining walls that run up and down Florida's coastline. This has turned a once thriving lagoon into one that has toxic algae blooms and dead wildlife as far as the eye can see.

The challenge of the project is how to create a space that both allows researchers to investigate and hopefully improve some environmental issues, while also creating a project that informs the community of the ecological issues it faces. These spaces were created through a combination of spatial and structural decisions that gave the project separate spaces for the researchers, the community, and also space designed for scientists/ community interaction.

The spatial aspirations for the project are primarily possible as a result of the eight foot vierendeel truss level that holds all of the systems for the project including ac, water, and electrical. Having this structural zone that is 50’ off the ground allows for spaces to be set on top of, and hung below while leaving the ground floor as open as possible creating continuous views of the research and water beyond when looking through the building from the street. This elevated system also has a secondary benefit of protecting the project in the event of a flood, as all the systems are held far above the hundred year water line, the building would remain unaffected in the event of a flood besides the sacrificial ground floor.

The project is designed for the needs of today as well as how needs may evolve in the future. The top floor of the project, which is entirely for the scientists, has adjustable walls that allows for spaces to grow and change as the needs of the scientists do. The community spaces are able to evolve as well with the suspended ramp and second floor space being able to hold different exhibitions and programs as the scientists/community relationship begins to evolve.

For any aquatic research center to truly make a difference in the community it needs to have its full support, and this project is able to facilitate this support through its spatial, structural and environmental considerations.