The Museum of Science and Technology of Canada, as we once knew, was forced to close its doors in 2014 following the opening of the presence of mold. A renovation project was then necessary to eliminate these contaminants allowing the institute to get a new look, redevelop the exhibition space and add a new main entrance. The $80.5million project also solidified and adapted the structure to seismic tremors, replaced most of the roof and updated the building’s mechanical and electrical systems.    

The museum’s new main entrance and improved exterior appearance enhances the museum’s image and harmonizes it with its subject. Large LED screens are provided at the outside entrance to create a spectacular reception tunnel enhancing the visitor experience upon arrival. These screens will allow the projection of images and messages that will be adapted and modified according to the exhibitions.

The improvements bring the area of the final building to 80,000 ft2, nearly 8,000 ft2 more than the original surface area of the building.  This museum has: 

• 5 separate areas for permanent exhibitions.
• A temporary gallery to host travelling exhibitions.
• A central aisle dedicated to artifacts.

Steel was chosen for this project for the following reasons: 

• The continuity of the structural elements of the original building as well as the structural force sought.
• The realization of complex geometries that can be manufactured in the factory for a superior aesthetic finish.
• Offering a maximum of structural strength by using a minimum of space (ceiling-floor) thus leaving more flexibility for the requested use of exposure.
• Maintaining a light structural weight, allowing existing foundations to be reused as much as possible.

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