University of Washington (Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture)

The Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture will test a multi-faceted exhibit concept designed to resonate with audiences and create effective learning opportunities. The museum is in the process of constructing a new facility that will enable staff to provide better care for the collections and reimagine the traditional natural history museum visitor experience. The project will test key ideas of the "New Burke." The new facility will include a research lab space where staff can interact with visitors on a regular basis; a flexible space for groups to gather for hands-on learning that bridges the more traditional galleries and the collections side of the museum; and spaces for collections managers to do their work while visitors watch, interact, and sometimes participate in the process. The project will enable the museum to prototype these spaces, get feedback, and make adjustments before opening to the public.