32: TFP Isolator | Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center

In this episode, Cherise is joined by Brian Kenworthy, Design Principal at ZGF Architects based in ZGF’s Los Angeles office. Brian shares insights into his work on the California Science Center, Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center in Los Angeles, California. As the permanent home of Endeavour—one of America’s most priceless artifacts—California Science Center’s 200,000 SF Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center will be a symbol of American ingenuity and its renowned legacy of space exploration.

Characterized by a curvilinear design of exterior forms clad in stainless steel, the new addition’s architectural expression is inspired by the aerodynamic, fluid geometry of the Endeavour’s fuselage, cockpit, wings, and vertical stabilizer. The primary structure will be three stories, while the shuttle gallery will rise six stories—peaking at 200 feet - to accommodate the height of the Endeavour in launch position. To see project photos and details discussed, visit arcat.com/podcast

Amie Nulman, Associate Principal of Building Structures at ARUP, Los Angeles, provides additional insight as the lead structural engineer and project manager on the project.

This project provided unique challenges and opportunities - a fragile artifact to build around, a flexible warehouse intended to host a variety of extreme displays, engineering expertise across decades and disciplines, and much more.

Topics Discussed:
Angel Hair Stainless Steel
Triple Friction Pendulum (TFP) Isolators

Photo Credits:
Renderings courtesy of ZGF Architects