The "Wild Reef" exhibit at the John G. Shedd Aquarium features the various animals, fish, coral and people of the Philippine coral reef - the world's richest aquatic ecosystem. The $47 million, 27,500 square foot exhibit was completed after seven years of planning, design and construction. Habitats total more than 750,000 gallons of saltwater and feature over 450 species of coral, 2,500 different species of fish, over 30 sharks and live coral. The exhibit also educates visitors about life on Apo Island, a traditional Philippines fishing village.

Schuler Shook worked closely with the architect, exhibit designer, engineers and Aquarium Fishes, Facilities and Special Events staffs to design, specify, focus and program lighting and control systems that meet all of the aesthetic, integration, code, maintenance and budget requirements of the project. The lighting systems in the public areas are dynamic and enhance the colorful signage, interactive displays and exhibitry. The tank lighting is resistant to the corrosive saltwater, but also sympathetic to the color temperature and color rendering needs of the various fish and coral.