Designed as a simple white terra cotta box, the new pavilion functions as a window, giving visitors an interior view of the museum and its three core disciplines. In contrast, the immersive theater’s domed form creates a sense of intrigue and wonder. The dome encapsulates the science wing but represents the other disciplines as well: the rich mottled wood cladding takes inspiration from the ancient artifacts found at the nearby Mann Site, linking the museum to the history of the region and its art.
The completed project increases the museum’s functional efficiency and creates a building image representative of its mission. The modern, daring design establishes a design continuum within the context of the original museum structure, maintaining its distinguished legacy.