MAYNARD, MA – JM Coull has begun the first phase of a multi-phase renovation and addition project at The Discovery Museums in Acton, Mass. “Discovery Woods” is a fully accessible nature playscape that will expand the facility’s existing outdoor offerings for children and families by including such features as a nature trail, slide hill, willow tunnel, community swing, and rain garden.
The centerpiece of the new space will be a large, fully accessible treehouse, built by The Treehouse Guys from Warren, Vermont. JMC is working with the design and engineering team of Lemon|Brooke Landscape Architecture, Meisner Brem Corporation, and R.W. Sullivan Engineering.
The project’s first phase will promote increased outdoor play among the Museums’ visitors. Discovery Woods will be fully ADA-compliant so children of all abilities can participate in activities. Phase two of the work, designed by Cambridge Seven Associates, Inc., encompasses a 9,000 sf expansion to the existing science museum, combining the exhibit space of the two existing museums into one building. Increased gallery space will make way for new exhibits, such as the “Brain Building Zone” and “DaVinci’s Workshop.” New program spaces, entrances, and parking lots will also be created. A third phase, featuring an outdoor amphitheater, is also anticipated.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to be working with The Discovery Museums on this important project,” comments JMC’s Project Executive, Josh Brandt. “It’s such an interesting project in so many aspects, from all of the components of the Discovery Woods, to the renovations of the indoor spaces – I think future visitors are really going to like what they see.” He adds, “Not only are these improvements visually exciting, but they promote inclusiveness for children of all abilities. It’s a tremendous feeling to be a part of that.”
