Oceanogràfic Valencia Architecture: Design Highlights

Oceanografic structural highlights

Thin-shell concrete roofs

Designed by renowned architect Félix Candela, the entrance and underwater restaurant feature sweeping, paper-thin concrete roofs shaped like water lilies and waves. These curved “thin-shell” roofs span over 35 meters with no internal pillars, creating wide-open, dramatic spaces.

Vaulted wonder

The underwater restaurant’s roof is a geometric masterpiece, formed from eight petal-like vaults. Though it looks delicate, the shell is made of super-strong, steel-fiber-reinforced concrete, just 6 cm thick in most places!

Smart materials, bold shapes

Engineers used advanced concrete techniques to mold complex, wave-like forms with surprising strength and flexibility. These materials allow for huge, elegant structures with minimal bulk.

Designed like nature

Inspired by marine life, the buildings resemble seashells, waves, and sea plants, making the architecture feel like an extension of the ocean itself.

Immersive zones

Each building represents a different marine ecosystem, from the Arctic to the Red Sea, with custom designs that make learning about the ocean feel like an adventure.

Oceanogràfic architect

Félix Candela is the architect behind Oceanogràfic Valencia within the City of Arts and Sciences complex.
Candela, a Spanish-Mexican architect, and engineer, is known for his innovative use of thin-shell reinforced concrete structures, known as cascarones, which allowed him to create large, open, and graceful spaces with minimal material thickness
This design not only provides visual drama but also echoes the natural forms found in aquatic environments, creating harmony between architecture and the marine theme of the park
Candela’s approach to Oceanogràfic Valencia was both artistic and functional. He used steel fiber-reinforced concrete and advanced construction techniques to create thin, strong shells without the need for heavy beams or columns
Completed posthumously, Oceanogràfic Valencia stands as Candela’s final major project and a testament to his lifelong fascination with geometry, nature, and structural innovation.

Oceanogràfic Valencia architecture

Overall design concept

The Oceanogràfic was designed to reflect the beauty and complexity of the marine world. Each building represents a different aquatic ecosystem- from the Arctic and Mediterranean to tropical oceans and wetlands.

Iconic roof structures

Architect Félix Candela’s most striking contribution is the use of thin-shell concrete roofs, especially on the entrance building and the underwater restaurant. These roofs are inspired by natural forms like water lilies and waves.

Hypar roofs: Shaped as hyperbolic paraboloids (hypars), they are lightweight, curved structures that allow massive open spans with no interior supports.
Groined vault: The restaurant's roof forms a graceful vault with eight curved lobes, offering a vast, open dining space beneath a flower-like canopy.

Structural innovation

The Oceanogràfic is a marvel of engineering as much as architecture:

Steel-fiber-reinforced concrete: This cutting-edge material makes the thin-shell forms both strong and durable while keeping them light and elegant.
Load distribution: The double-curved shapes naturally distribute weight through membrane forces rather than bending, improving stability while using less material.
Span efficiency: Some structures span over 35 meters with shells just 6 cm thick!

Biomimicry & symbolism

Nature is at the heart of the Oceanogràfic’s design:

Biomimetic forms: Buildings resemble elements of the ocean, shells, waves, petals, or sea creatures, helping visitors feel connected to the marine world.
Emotional impact: The flowing lines and organic curves evoke calmness, curiosity, and wonder, enhancing the aquarium’s educational mission.

Architectural style

Oceanogràfic follows a Neo-Futurist style, defined by bold forms, innovation, and harmony between technology and nature. It aligns visually with the other structures in the City of Arts and Sciences, creating a coherent architectural narrative across the complex.

Functional design & visitor flow

Each area of the Oceanogràfic is thematically and architecturally distinct:

Zoned layout: Visitors move through zones representing different global habitats.
Immersive experiences: The architecture supports immersive storytelling — from tunnels surrounded by sharks to igloo-like Arctic domes housing belugas.

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Frequently asked questions about Oceanogràfic Valencia architecture

Who designed the architecture of Oceanogràfic Valencia?

The structural design was created by architect Félix Candela, with support from engineers Alberto Domingo and Carlos Lázaro. The overall complex was developed as part of the City of Arts and Sciences by Santiago Calatrava.

What is unique about the buildings at Oceanogràfic?

The buildings feature thin-shell, hyperbolic paraboloid roofs made of steel-fiber-reinforced concrete, allowing for wide, open interiors with dramatic organic shapes inspired by marine life.

What architectural style is Oceanogràfic built in?

It’s designed in a Neo-Futurist style, known for its flowing forms, advanced materials, and harmony between nature, science, and technology.

What is the purpose of the shell-like roofs?

The thin-shell roofs not only create striking visual forms but also maximize structural efficiency. They span large areas without internal supports, making spaces like the underwater restaurant feel open and immersive.

How does the architecture reflect the marine theme?

The design draws on biomimicry, mimicking natural forms such as seashells, waves, and water lilies. Each building represents a different ecosystem, enhancing the storytelling and educational experience.

What materials were used in construction?

Advanced concrete technology was key, - especially shotcrete and steel-fiber-reinforced concrete, which allowed for thin, curved structures that are both strong and visually striking.

How large is the Oceanogràfic complex?

The complex covers around 110,000 square meters, including open-air lakes, tunnels, domes, and exhibition halls.

Is the architecture environmentally friendly?

Yes, the architecture promotes sustainability through efficient material use, passive lighting, and fluid spatial planning that minimizes the need for excessive artificial support or cooling.