Exploration Place is a science and discovery center, with a mission to inspire a deeper insterest in science and technology through creative and fun experiences for all. Opened in 2000, it has become the premier science center in the State of Kansas.
During the AIA Wichita tour of the facility, Matt Hamm AIA, Vice President of Schaefer Architecture, will discuss the histroy of the project including the nearly decade long effort by community leaders to plan and execute a transformational building on a distinctive site.
Mr. Hamm will share insight into the selection of internationally acclaimed Architect Moshe Safdie and why Exploration Place represents a significant milestone in his practice. The tour will include a conversation about the deisng process during which Mr. Safdie began exploring the use of a geometrical form called a toroid.
The tour will include technical discussions of the use of poured-in-place concrete and curved glue laminated wood beams.
Mr. Hamm will also share some challenges of operating an active and evolving children's museum within a uniquely shaped footprint, as well as the development of a Design Guidelines document.
In addition, ongoing site development and masterplanning for a destination playscabpe will be discussed.
After attending this program, participants will be able to:
1. Describe the community effort and collaboration required for the creation of a transformative work of Architecture.
2. Explore the use of cast-in-place concrete and glue laminated wood in construction projects.
3. Plan for evolving activities and changing technologies that occur within a unique building.
4. Explain the impact of ongoing site development and masterplanning work on the ability of an organizaqtion to serve it's community and grow it's mission.