Worldwide, 193 natural sites are included in the wider list of 981 sites UNESCO assesses as being so valuable to the world that they should be preserved for posterity. The new pavilion is the first of its kind. It is a large aviary for wadden sea marine flora and fauna, with glazed pools, so it is possible to see the typical wadden sea birds such as eider, shelduck, wigeon and avocets, both above and below the water. Through the glazing one can watch the birds dive for mussels, snails, shrimp, etc. The pavilion consists of a brick base and a light glass superstructure. The base contains the pools, and an exhibition that presents the nature of the Wadden Sea and its complex ecosystem, including a 12 meter long interactive wall. The transparent and semi-enclosed part of the pavilion is made of steel and glass, and protects against foxes, mink and birds of prey. From the visitor's area and podium structure, one can look through the pavilion across the entire horizon line to the mudflats beyond and the low profile of the island Fanø. C.F. Møller Architects has designed and detailed the pavilion in cooperation with the Museum and the Esbjerg Municipality Building Office. It is the fourth expansion of the Fisheries and Maritime Museum which C.F. Møller is in charge off: First, a new exhibition hall, a new administration wing and library were added, later a conversion of the aquarium wing and a new sealarium were completed, and just now a new auditorium wing is being planned. All extensions are based on the masterplan layout which was the result of an architectural competition won by C.F. Møller Architects in 1996. The original museum is from 1966-68, designed by architects Halldor Gunløgsson and Jørn Nielsen.

 

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