ABSTRACT
Even before the Exploratorium opened its doors in 1969, its site was a major influence on the culture of the organization. Even before the Exploratorium opened its doors in 1969, its site was a major influence on the culture of the organization. More recently, and still in keeping with a sense of sightseeing and wandering, Rob Semper likened the Exploratorium to Paris, a space formed by association. Over time, the building filled, not only with exhibits but also with large office trailers, brought in to accommodate increasing numbers of staff. Most of the museum's resources continued to flow to exhibit development, with little invested in the infrastructure—lighting, heating, acoustics, rest rooms, and food services. Architects and engineers are working with Exploratorium staff to redesign the interior spaces, move the entrance back to its original Maybeck location, create a central public plaza, and provide a dynamic outdoor space on the "back" side of the building.
