JJA set for challenge at Science Museum

The Science Museum has chosen Jasper Jacob Associates to design its 4.5m Challenge of Materials Gallery.

The consultancy won a paid creative pitch against Bednarsky and Associates. The two designers were shortlisted from an original list of six, which was whittled down to four in September (DW 1 September).

The 1200m2 gallery will replace the current steel, glass and plastics galleries on the museum’s first floor.

The gallery’s main feature will be a bridge designed by the consultancy, which is working in conjunction with Chris Wilkinson Architects. It will open in 1997. “It’ll be split into three modules – designing products, selecting materials and manipulating materials,” explains JJA associate Robin Rye.

Meanwhile, the museum has unveiled The Theatre, a refurbishment of its lecture theatre, designed by Met Studio. It aims to generate enthusiasm among young visitors about science.

And last week the Science Museum opened four new areas. The Garden was designed by Casson Mann, Things by French designer Gilles Cenazandotti, The Secret Life of the Home by engineer Tim Hunkin, and The Network by Carter Wong & Partners.

Ben Kelly Design created a connecting space for the first three galleries.