The Bay Area Discovery Museum (BADM) in Sausalito, California, has announced that it is to undergo a renovation designed by architecture firm Olson Kundig, led by architect Alan Maskin.

The museum, which is an art and STEM centre for children aged up to 10-years-old, announced the US$18.5m (€16.4m, £14m) renovation under the moniker ‘BOLD: Spark Curiosity, Inspire Innovation’ – a directive that will include five new research-based exhibits, a new dedicated classroom space for school field trips and improved on-site amenities.

BADM estimates that the improvements will help it to welcome 400,000 visitors annually, including 17,500 school children on field trips and more than 100,000 visitors with free or reduced admission.

New areas at the museum will include the Try It Studio, which will house a new early math exhibit; a new STEM Classroom, which will increase the number of students who can participate in BADM’s STEM programs; new local-themed exhibits in the toddler-only space, Tot Spot
How Things Work; and a new outdoor exhibit designed specifically for children aged five to 10.

BADM will remain open throughout exhibit upgrades, which will be completed over the next two years. The museum has currently raised US$14.5m (€12.8m, £11m) of its $18.5m goal to complete the works.

"Our architect Alan Maskin and his team – in collaboration with our in-house research division – have designed new exhibits that develop key creative problem-solving skills, spark children’s curiosity, and, ultimately, are really fun for families to enjoy together," said Karyn Flynn, CEO of BADM.

Maskin added: "When I first set foot on the property and saw what is arguably one of the most spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay, I was astounded to learn what was once a World War 1 military installation was now a learning campus for children.

"I was excited about the opportunity to renovate the Bay Area Discovery Museum and align Olson Kundig’s design with their visionary education theories and practices."