British architectural company Foster + Partners has broken ground on the new National Museum of Marine Science and Technology (NMMST) in Keelung, Taiwan.
Being built at the site of a former power station, the 14,154m² facility will be completed over three years and house more than 300 species of live marine creatures.
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Claimed to be the largest aquarium in northern Taiwan, NMMST is set to attract tourists and the local community, providing an exciting destination for visitors of all ages.
The project involves tank design with the opportunity to engage with various marine species and aims to set a new benchmark for aquariums worldwide.
According to Foster + Partners, the sustainable design elements have been selected in consideration of the site and the surrounding urban grain, the subtropical climate and conservation of marine life in Keelung.
Facing toward Badouzi harbour, the building will offer connectivity between the waterfront and the fishing village to the east of the site.
It has been conceived as a social hub for the community, while its focal point will be a new public plaza at the heart of the aquarium.
The museum will offer other public facilities such as a shop, cafe and restaurant, which will be open seven days a week.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by the Deputy Minister of Education and the Mayor of Keelung.
Image: National Museum of Marine Science and Technology in Keelung, Taiwan. Photo: courtesy of Foster + Partners.
