LAX Leader

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is set to unveil its new NHM Commons wing on November 17, 2024. This addition marks a significant expansion and renovation effort aimed at enhancing community engagement through science, nature, culture, and heritage.

The $75 million project was designed by Frederick Fisher and Partners with landscape architecture by Studio-MLA. It includes approximately 75,000 square feet of renovated space and new construction. The transparent glass façade of NHM Commons connects it to Exposition Park, offering accessible outdoor spaces for public interaction. Dr. Lori Bettison-Varga, NHMLAC’s President and Director stated, “With the opening of NHM Commons, we welcome everyone to enjoy special indoor and outdoor experiences in this new destination for Exposition Park.”

Fred Fisher from Frederick Fisher and Partners emphasized the project's goal: “NHM Commons is a site for access, discovery, and community.” The design aims to integrate the museum with its surroundings while allowing flexible use through various programs.

The opening celebration will feature a Block Party with food trucks, music performances including sets from KCRW DJs Tyler Boudreaux and Linda Nuves, as well as interactive activities like artist workshops. A Community Ceremony will also take place featuring Los Angeles Second District Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell who commented on the museum's inclusivity: “The Natural History Museum has created an inclusive community space that will serve Angelenos with free and accessible exhibitions.”

Two marquee exhibits are set to open within NHM Commons' Judith Perlstein Welcome Center: Barbara Carrasco’s mural "L.A. History: A Mexican Perspective" and Gnatalie the Green Dinosaur—the most complete sauropod skeleton on display on the West Coast.

Additional exhibition spaces include "Collective Knowledge from Our Changing World," showcasing photographs by Craig Cutler and Scott Bremner alongside specimens from NHM's collection; "Doing Science Better Together," highlighting community science initiatives; as well as newly developed outdoor areas acknowledging Southern California Native communities.

South LA Café will open a location within NHM Commons offering coffee and light bites starting November 18. An adjacent retail space named Commons Marketplace will feature products inspired by museum exhibits along with items crafted by local artists.

Programming at NHM Commons is set to expand over time with offerings such as film series debuting T.REX 3D narrated by Sam Neill starting November 18; Ocean Encounters puppet show beginning November 23; among other educational content aimed at engaging diverse audiences.