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Orlando Science Center Phase II
Orlando, Florida
The Orlando Science Center, constructed in several minor phases, underwent a major growth in 1985-1986. Architects Design Group, Inc., selected after a public advertisement process, initiated the development program by conducting a series of program interviews with Science Center staff.
Based upon this program document, ADG proceeded to the design phases and prepared models and drawings utilized by the Science Center to obtain funding from a variety of state, local and private sources.
The subsequent development extensively renovated existing exhibit halls, shop fabrication areas and existing access / egress areas. Major new areas included a Physical Sciences Exhibit Hall, and a Physical Sciences Arcade containing "Halls" of Waves, Electricity, Forces and Light, each defined by a color and content.
The Natural Sciences Hall contains a second floor mezzanine level, introducing the public to upper views and projecting into the Physical Sciences Arcade. The Hall has been successfully utilized for traveling exhibits to such a degree that it has permanently been designated as such.
A unique and much publicized aspect of the exhibit halls is the "Tunnel of Discovery", a people walkway in which direction of travel is encouraged by computer programmed neon lights that create the illusion of motion.
All exhibit halls, including those renovated, have been designed to include extensive, and cost saving under floor systems that provide the electrical, communication, water and gas services to individual exhibits.
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