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The environment where we engage has a tremendous impact upon how we perceive and internalise our experiences. Context is both a filter and an integral component of making personal associations and meaning. As the Reggio Emilia education philosophy puts it: “environment is the third teacher”.

What we often see in the design of a new science centre or museum building is a symbolic, trendy, stylistic representation of the idea of ‘science centre’, but not necessarily a true embodiment of the institution’s communication goals and key messages nor an enhancement of the visitor’s ability to gain deep understanding or find deep meaning. At worst, architecture is an obstacle: forms, shapes, circulation, natural light or bad acoustics restricting the meaningful use of space.

However design and architecture have a tremendous potential to powerfully contribute to the interpretation and communication of the content of the museum. All the elements of design can be harnessed to support the creation of environments that provoke the most profound meaning making.

This session explores the tools and processes for achieving this from three different perspectives: museum director, project manager and architect.

Stay for the related workshop during the next time slot!