Ninth International Conference on The Constructed Environment

Abstract

The goal of a children’s museum is to provide engaging, hands-on learning experiences to children of all ages and abilities. They do so by creating a space were children are encouraged to explore their imaginations and internalize knowledge through play-based engagement with their surroundings. Exhibits, classrooms, and programming all need to foster multidisciplinary learning with an aesthetic that is welcoming and open enough that participants feel their exploration is a valued contribution to the space. In this discussion, we consider warm colors, open-concept floors plans, installations that reflect the region, multilevel playspaces, and other design ideas that all need to be considered and balanced in planning a successful children’s museum. When done correctly, construction of a museum space becomes a reflection of its ideals and contributes greatly to the effectiveness of its objectives.