This museum was designed to encourage wonder and independent inquiry in children ages one to ten. Exhibits of science, culture, and local history are housed in two open shed wings that radiate out from the “Hub,” the landmark tower of the museum. Made of kinetic parts and playful imagery that invite interaction, the building itself is intended to be an object of wonder. The two wings of the museum, with the museum’s theater at the center, partially enclose an outdoor play space. A curving, trellised, pergola completes the enclosure, while the back wall of the theater’s stage, on occasion, opens to transform this enclave into an outdoor amphitheater.

Photography © Jeff Goldberg/Esto