150,000 Square-foot Cesar Pelli-Designed Building to Open in 2013 at National Harbor WASHINGTON, April 22 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Children's Museum (NCM) today unveiled plans for its new Pelli Clarke Pelli-designed building, slated to open in 2013 at National Harbor, as a physical demonstration of the Museum's mission to inspire children to care about and improve the world. NCM's new 150,000 square-foot, LEED-certified building will serve as an active teaching tool, highlighting the accomplishments of children; using recycled and sustainable materials; and celebrating the natural environment. The space boasts an outdoor courtyard, wind turbine, green wall facade, and glass arrival area. "The building's overall design reflects the mission of the National Children's Museum through a series of dynamic architectural forms surrounding a large exterior courtyard," said Cesar Pelli, Senior Principal of Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects. "Areas of the structure vary in shape and size to create a 'village of forms' that provides great architectural scale and experiential variety to the visitor, along with intuitive wayfinding and seamless interaction between exhibits, programs, and activities. In all aspects, the design seeks to encourage and inspire children to think about their role in the community and the world."
