Bay Area Discovery Museum: Unique Interactive Experiences for Classrooms
| Project | BADM Interactive |
| Location | Fort Baker, Sausalito, CA |
| Architect | Olson Kundig |
| AV design consultant | Charles Salter |
| Size | 7,000 SF |
Introduction
The Bay Area Discovery Museum (BADM) is a nationally recognized children's museum dedicated to interactive learning experiences that spark curiosity in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Located at Fort Baker in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, the museum welcomes more than 350,000 visitors annually, offering hands-on exhibits in one of the most iconic settings in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Designed by internationally acclaimed architecture firm Olson Kundig, the museum was transformed into a learning campus for children while preserving the historic integrity of the Fort Baker site it sits upon.
The design draws inspiration directly from the surrounding landscape—San Francisco Bay, rugged coastline, and wooded terrain—creating immersive interior environments that help children connect architecture, nature, and learning through play.
The Challenge
During a facility closure, BADM took the opportunity to engineer two new audio-visual experiences for the venue. While no two projects are identical, the key factors for success remain consistent: effective communication, a comprehensive understanding of the full scope, and precise reporting.
The museum required multiple AV-equipped rooms, ranging from simple phone rooms to classrooms and an interactive exhibit. We collaborated with BADM, integrating both existing and new equipment to align with their budget and overall vision.
The Solution
We worked with Davis Keith, Senior Associate at the Bay Area design consulting firm Charles Salter Inc., alongside Creation Networks and the BADM IT team to establish a shared vision for the Interactive Exhibit audiovisual project. The initiative introduced unique interactive classroom experiences, and constant communication between all stakeholders was critical to its success.
In the main AV exhibit, a downward-facing projector displays interactive floor images for children. A downward-facing camera captures them, and a second projector shows them on the wall. An Extron control system keeps the exhibit simple to operate. Achieving this required close collaboration and strong partnerships among all parties.
The Technology
| Systems | Room types |
|---|---|
| Extron processor for the control system Extron video and audio switching Biamp Tesira Forte audio system Epson professional projectors Da-Lite projection screen |
Children's media exhibits Multi-use interactive classrooms |
Next Steps
If your organization is ready to bring intelligent AV solutions and LED video wall technology to your new building, Creation Networks is here to help. We design, install, and program AV systems for businesses across California and nationwide. Contact us today.
Creation Networks, Inc. — nationwide commercial AV integrator, CTS-D certified, headquartered in Incline Village, NV with a California office in Concord. Design, engineering, programming, installation, and support from a single point of contact since 2006. Call 888-230-3661 or email sales@creationnetworks.net.
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