Perot Museum of Nature and Science
Dallas, Texas/USA

Dynamic lighting adds energy to this Morphosis-designed museum, conceived as an immersive, curiosity-stimulating environment. From outside, a dramatic use of light and shadows gives visual punch to the distinctive structure; while inside, proposed interactive lighting systems demonstrate technology and inspire visitors to playfully engage with the building.

At night, light fills the crevice-like central atrium, spilling into the surroundings and emphasizing the building’s sculpted form and sharp lines. To create this effect, selected surfaces within the atrium are highlighted, while minimal lighting is used on the facades to create more contrast. A half-exterior escalator is treated with a gradation of illumination, transitioning between the contrasting zones and suggesting upward movement.

Inside, the lobby’s undulating metal mesh ceilings are highlighted by interwoven ceiling lights. Proposed interactive technologies will allow these lights to respond to the presence of people in the space, forming dynamic patterns and instantly tracking movements below.

Client: Museum of Nature and Science Organization
Architect: Morphosis
Graphics: Morphosis, OVI