History of the Cité de l’Océan
A PLACE DEDICATED TO THE DISCOVERY AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE OCEAN
Located just a few kilometers from the Aquarium de Biarritz, facing Milady beach, the Cité de l’Océan is an innovative and immersive space where science, technology, and entertainment come together to reveal the mysteries of the ocean depths and the importance of preserving marine ecosystems.
A birth in 2008
In 2008, Biarritz saw the creation of a complementary duo dedicated to ocean knowledge: the Aquarium de Biarritz and the Cité de l’Océan. It offers an interactive and educational approach through virtual reality experiences, exhibitions, and immersive experiences.
2008Architecture inspired by waves
Designed by Steven Holl, a New York architect, and his Brazilian partner Solange Fabião, the Cité de l’Océan embraces the shape of the Basque coast’s waves. Its spatial concept is based on the idea “Under the sky, under the ocean,” with geometry combining convex and concave curves that evoke the movement of water.
The building includes
A fun-science space dedicated to immersive experiences
- Exhibitions and an auditorium
- A restaurant, cafeteria, and a kiosk with panoramic ocean views
- A curved green roof, designed as a public square, responding to the rocks of Ilbarritz
Architects: Steven Holl, Solange Fabião
Associate architects: X. Leibar, J.-M. Seigneurin
An environmental approach
Designed to blend harmoniously into the landscape, the Cité de l’Océan adopts an environmental approach:
- Thermal self-regulation of the building
- Rainwater recovery system using specific paving and natural vegetation
- An open space facing the sea horizon, inspiring exploration and travel