NHM Commons, the new wing at Los Angeles’ Natural History Museum, has an opening date of 17 November.
Found on the southwest side of the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County campus in Exposition Park, NHM Commons is a $75 million expansion and renovation project.
“We are grateful to our advisory groups and community partners for collaborating with us to envision innovative ways we can continue to be a resource for our community,” said Lori Bettison-Varga, the museum’s president and director.
NHM Commons to open in November
“We can’t wait to share some of what Angelenos and our visitors from around the world will see as we open new doors to experiencing natural history, community science, and culture.”
NHM Commons includes 75,000 square feet of renovated space and new construction, with accessible outdoor spaces, a 400-seat multi-purpose theatre, a new café, and updated retail offerings. It is designed with transparent glass so people can see inside.
Highlights also include the new 75-foot dinosaur skeleton Gnatalie, the most complete sauropod skeleton on the West Coast, as well as a new 3D T. rex film.
For the community, NHM Commons will provide new film series and theatrical experiences, festivals, talks and other educational content.
“NHM Commons is a site for access, discovery, and community,” said Fred Fisher, founding partner of Frederick Fisher and Partners, the architecture firm responsible for designing the expansion.
The Natural History Museum is part of the Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County (NHMLAC), which also includes the La Brea Tar Pits in Hancock Park.
Bettison-Varga added: “Together, we are constantly discovering the diverse stories that the city of LA and even our own backyards have to teach us about becoming better stewards of our shared home.
“One of our goals with NHM Commons is to welcome Angelenos and all visitors to be part of the meaningful work that happens here.”
