May 8th, 2009
Refreshing, beautiful, inspiring, educational and green! And coming soon. What more could you want?
The National Children’s Museum (NCM) recently unveiled their plans for the DC-based interactive museum scheduled to open in 2013 at National Harbor. It will serve the 48 million children under age 13 living in the US.
The Pelli Clarke Pelli-designed building will be LEED-certified.
At 150,000 square feet, NCM will focus on the natural environment, including (from NCM news release):
Wind Turbine: The building’s wind turbine, a symbol of NCM’s commitment to sustainable and renewable energy, will be a source of power.
Sun Reflector: A series of reflective panels on the roof of the arrival space will reflect sunlight, minimize artificial lighting, and reduce energy loads during the day.
Living Wall: The Museum’s south facing façade features a cable and tray system to support a framework for a living, green wall. The Living Wall will shade the building from the bright, hot southern sun, helping to cool the building and reduce energy demands.
Green Roof: A green roof system will provide for sedums and small scale planting, absorb rainwater (reducing storm run off), improve thermal insulation, and reduce the “heat island” effect.
Recycled Materials: The new Museum will use recycled structural steel and some recycled brick from demolished buildings.
Until the NCM opens, visit the Launch Zone at National Harbor — 112 Waterfront Street to explore table-top interactive exhibits and computer kiosks giving kids a chance to browse exhibit components early.
What do you think of the NCM design and focus on green?
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