PPG Science Pavilion
Carnegie Science Center
North Side, Pittsburgh, PA
Status: Completed 2018
Building Type: Museum
Area: 48,689 SF
The Carnegie Science Center's expansion and renovation aimed to revitalize the center with sustainable, modern, and transparent architecture.
The new PPG Science Pavilion, a four-story addition on the east side of the building, utilizes expansive views of downtown Pittsburgh and its rivers. This addition envelops the original OmniMax drum and integrates a new stair and elevator tower, creating a seamless link between the old and new. The façade features a striking two-story perforated aluminum scrim against an insulated metal panel backdrop, enhancing the building's architectural appeal.
The expansion introduces key elements to support the Science Center’s mission. The ground floor includes nine classrooms with views of a new sustainable rain garden and outdoor classroom. The second and mezzanine levels house a 14,000-square-foot space for traveling exhibitions, while the top floor provides a special events area with floor-to-ceiling glass and views of downtown Pittsburgh.
The project also reconfigures the ground-level café and group services area, renovates the Rangos Theater, and updates the main ticketing floor to streamline processes and improve visitor experience, transforming the Science Center into a more open and inviting facility.