To prepare for a new ocean and sea life exhibit, the Smithsonian Institution directed QEA to transform the main-level exhibit halls in this century-old National Historic Landmark building. Our innovative renovation, the largest endeavor in the museum’s history, brings back original Beaux-Arts features to define the voluminous two-story space, restores and reinforces wayfinding and significantly enhances daylighting via a large, restored lay-light and side hall windows. New systems and elements are integrated within the historic fabric (invisible to visitors).
