The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum on the National Mall in Washington, DC has revealed five design proposals for the $130 million Bezos Learning Center.
The Bezos Learning Center is funded by a $200 million gift from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the largest donation to the Smithsonian since its founding gift from James Smithson in 1846.
The institution is seeking public feedback on proposals from five anonymous architecture firms bidding for the project. The design proposals can be reviewed until 19 September.
The three-storey learning centre will focus on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics). It will feature exhibition spaces, a restaurant, a rooftop terrace and an observatory.
“The Smithsonian plays a vital role in igniting the imaginations of our future builders and dreamers,” Bezos said in a previous statement.
“Every child is born with great potential, and it’s inspiration that unlocks that potential,” he added.
“My love affair with science, invention and space did that for me, and I hope this gift does that for others.”
“This historic gift will help the Smithsonian achieve its goal of reaching every classroom in America by creating a world-class learning center with access and inspiration at its heart,” said Smithsonian secretary Lonnie Bunch.
National Air and Space Museum‘s new building
The remaining $70 million from Bezos will support the museum’s seven-year renovation project, which started back in 2018. The institution is reopening half of its renovated flagship building in October.
“This is one of the most exciting times in the National Air and Space Museum’s history,” said Chris Browne, the museum’s director.
The X-wing Starfighter that appeared in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, which is on loan from Lucasfilm, will be displayed in the reopened west wing.
The National Air and Space Museum recently unveiled a new brand and identity for the first time since it opened in 1976.
Images: Smithsonian
