A new addition to the California Science Center is not subtle. It leans into what it is, right down to the stainless steel exterior.
Designed by ZGF Architects, the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center spans about 200,000 square feet. The whole building is really built around one thing. Space Shuttle Endeavour, shown vertically and fully stacked, like it is ready to go.
The architecture follows that idea pretty closely. The outer shell curves around the shuttle with a smooth, almost aerodynamic shape. There are very few hard edges. It feels intentional without trying too hard.
Inside, it opens up in a big way. The main gallery rises about 200 feet and stays completely open, so you can see the shuttle from just about anywhere. It feels less like a typical museum and more like being near something operational, even if it is not.
Around that central space are multiple levels of exhibits focused on aviation and space exploration. There is a mix of real artifacts and interactive pieces, more than 100 of each. It is a lot, but it does not feel overwhelming. You can move through it at your own pace.
The outside and inside feel pretty different. From Exposition Park, the building stands out and has a strong presence. Once you are inside, the structure steps back and the shuttle becomes the only thing that really matters.
It took a long time to get this built, but the end result is straightforward.
Photographs © Mike Kelley
