Discovery Lab
Project Profile
Fulfilling an educational need and igniting curiosity within the community was the vision for Tulsa’s Discovery Lab when it was founded in 2007. The museum has been featured in news articles and other publications for its unique display of interactive learning. The Discovery Lab partners with local school districts, and various nonprofit organizations such as the Tulsa Housing Authority, YMCA of Greater Tulsa, Family and Children Services of Tulsa, and the Department of Human Services.
Previously a museum with no walls, the Discovery Lab opened their first walls in the Owen Park Recreation Center in 2013 and the museum was able to impact nearly 130,000 children and families. To significantly increase outreach and offer more hands-on learning experiences, the Discovery Lab knew they needed more space.
In 2022, they expanded their vision and opened a 3-story, 57,000-square-foot interactive museum. The interactive museum now includes an exhibit, gift shop, foodservice tenant, Tulsa Public Schools STEM classrooms (funded through a bond), and a rooftop indoor and outdoor event space. The museum features specialty lighting and an outdoor amphitheater. PEC was responsible for the design of the mechanical and electrical engineering, rooftop units, air compressors, and water requirements of the water exhibits housed in the museum.
The expansion of the Tulsa Discovery Lab was transformative for Tulsa families and children and answered a momentous need for stimulating education resources in the community. Founded on the grounds of Gathering Place Park, the space welcomes children and families to explore the world of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math (STEAM). This facility appeals to visitors from all walks of life regardless of ethnicity, education level, or economic status. More than 25 percent of the students that visit the Discovery Lab on field trips receive a free or reduced rate and 40 percent of those in the outreach program receive those same benefits.
SERVICES
Electrical
Mechanical
PROJECT SIZE
57,000 SF
COMPLETION DATE
2022
