St. Louis Aquarium

Intricate systems supporting aquatic life across varying ecosystems

The St. Louis Aquarium in downtown St. Louis takes over a former mall area within the train shed portion of Union Station. The 125,000 SF design brings a new aquarium with 44 exhibits, retail store, event spaces and several tenant spaces. Coordination, work sequencing and planning were essential to the success of the project due to working off as-built drawings dating back to the late 1800s.

Design within this historic landmark challenged the team to make strategic reuse of existing HVAC and electrical distribution systems. Coordination of existing MEP services assisted to effectively run through the renovated space and serve other facilities within Union Station.

Complex piping and life support systems sustain varying species of aquatic life across freshwater, saltwater, riverside and oceanside ecosystems. Nearly three miles of pipe are utilized to service the multiple life support systems and pump the nearly 1.3 gallons of water throughout the exhibits.

Technology design for various technology systems supporting hotel operations

EXP’s technology team designed a structured cabling system, surveillance system, access control system and multiple AV systems. The structured cabling system was designed to distribute networking and data requirements within guest rooms and amenity spaces. Surveillance and access control systems provide security for guests, while supporting the hotel’s keyless entry system.

The hotel’s AV systems were designed to provide easy access and control of guest room amenities, and create adaptable support within meeting and ballroom spaces for an assortment of events. A background music (BGM) system was designed to provide ambient sound and intuitive control panels for ease of use within the various restaurants and public space.

Services

Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Protection, Technology Design