Connecticut Center for Science and Exploration
Project Title
Connecticut Center for Science and Exploration
Alternate Titles
Connecticut Science Center
Description
Surrounded by relatively tall commercial buildings, the Connecticut Center must assert itself. Its image evokes the sciences; its geometries are reminiscent of great astronomical instruments, challenging our curiosity. Two nacelles, shaped as segments of two great toroids, are perched side by side atop a podium. The structure of the nacelles is made of laminated wood lattice - a diagrid - that rotates about their surface in an ordered and repetitive geometry. Uniting the nacelles is a great roof platform in the shape of the surface of a partial sphere - an inverted dome. The geometries of each part intersect to create a cohesive and ordered whole. The Connecticut Center is organized into six levels, the first of which is the entry at the street. The second level is a podium, which features three floors of parking as well as offices and the museum's back-of-the-house areas. The deck of the podium extends Hartford's series of piazza, which also connect to the river abutting the site - these are the city's upper platform. The third and fourth levels of the Center, within the nacelles, are an exhibition and theatre spaces; the fifth level, also within the nacelles, is the upper mezzanine; the top level is the sky garden.

Images on this page: 1 Physical model; 2 Elevation view of model; 3 Rendering; 4 Site section; 5 Rendering sketch

Hartford, Connecticut, United States of America

Timeline
2004
Location
Completion Date
Notes
Competition: Lost

Project Type
Creator
Safdie Architects
Rights:
© Safdie Architects. Explicit permission to use images is required. Contact the Communications Director at Safdie Architects (617.629.2100) for more information.