The environmental graphics of Birch Aquarium’s Living Seas bring the story of the Pacific Ocean to life, transforming the gallery into an immersive journey beneath the surface. Seamlessly integrated into the exhibit environment, the graphics, interpretive elements, and visual storytelling create engaging moments of discovery while helping visitors better understand the marine ecosystems around them. Layered UV ink applications incorporated into the graphics invite young visitors to uncover hidden animals and unexpected details using special UV flashlights, turning observation into an engaging hands-on experience. These moments of discovery deepen connections with the underwater world while reinforcing the aquarium’s mission to inspire curiosity, conservation, and stewardship of our oceans.
Address
2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037
Owner / Developer
Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Architect
HGW Architecture
Contractor
Rudolph and Sletten
Structural Engineer
Coffman Engineers
Mechanical & Plumbing Engineer
Coffman Engineers
Electrical Engineer
Coffman Engineers
Interiors
HGW Architecture
Lighting
Coffman Engineers
Other
Roto, Exhibit Design and Environmental Graphics

Orchid
I love this for the city of San Diego.
We come to La Jolla every year for our anniversary. We started coming to the Scripps Aquarium and have been blown away every time. We come every year!!
I especially love the interactive elements. Such a fun experience for kids of any age.
A San Diego treasure!
What beautiful and educational displays. Well curated and presented.
My grandchildren can’t wait to find the creatures I challenge them to find.
Delightful to experience !
Great vision to integrate the layout of the aquarium with the design. So fun! Love the seemingly hand drawn creatures and fonts!
It’s a fascinating discovery of the ocean’s biosphere. The design is both a visual masterpiece as well as a treasure of information.
The Grandchildren were fascinated by the the seahorses and outdoor aquarium tide pool.
Love it
Beautifully done, love it.