A landmark marine attraction reimagined for sustainability, resilience and visitor experience
Engineering a sustainable transformation
Located in Sentosa Island, the Singapore Oceanarium (SGO) reimagines the former S.E.A. Aquarium as a next-generation destination that blends immersive storytelling with sustainable, high-performance design. Following a major renovation, the Oceanarium has been expanded to three times its original size — all within the framework of the existing structure — requiring innovative solutions to meet complex spatial, environmental and operational needs.
AECOM provided multidisciplinary services, including mechanical and electrical engineering, civil and structural design, fire safety consultancy, sustainability advisory, and landscape architectural design. Integrated design thinking and close collaboration across disciplines were essential to overcoming technical constraints and achieving project goals.
Integrated systems for resilience and performance
A key feature of the design is the integration of Life Support Systems (LSS) with mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) services. Chilled water is delivered to marine tanks via titanium plate heat exchangers to maintain species-specific temperatures without direct contact. Redundant power systems and dedicated control infrastructure support uninterrupted operations critical to marine life health.
Back-of-house coordination required detailed spatial planning using Building Information Modeling (BIM), particularly in constrained plantrooms and service corridors. Visitor-facing areas were engineered for thermal and acoustic comfort, with specialized climate control for temperature- and humidity-sensitive exhibits.
Fire safety was addressed through a performance-based Engineered Smoke Control System (ESCS), featuring automated extraction integrated with the fire alarm and Building Management System (BMS) for real-time response and monitoring.
Setting new standards in sustainable design
The Oceanarium achieved BCA Green Mark Platinum certification under the 2021 criteria, an uncommon achievement for existing buildings, and accomplished without renewable energy inputs. Notable sustainability features include:
- The development incorporates high-efficiency mechanical and electrical systems, including optimized air-side and ventilation performance. Water conservation is achieved through the use of top-rated fittings under the Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme (WELS).
- The building envelope is designed to minimize thermal gain, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling. Smart air-conditioning and mechanical ventilation (ACMV) systems are integrated with the BMS to enable intelligent monitoring and control.
- Energy-efficient LED lighting with motion sensor controls enhances operational efficiency across all spaces. All materials and MEP products are certified by the Singapore Green Building Council (SGBC), supporting responsible sourcing and sustainable construction practices.
- Biophilic design principles are integrated through indoor planting and publicly accessible green spaces, promoting occupant wellness and ecological connectivity.
The Singapore Oceanarium demonstrates how thoughtful integration of sustainable systems, technical innovation and user experience can redefine complex, high-performance facilities in the built environment.