Griffith Observatory has been an important Los Angeles landmark since 1935. One of the most visited places on the West Coast, and the most popular observatory in the world, Griffith Observatory was literally being “loved to death,” and closed in 2002 for an extensive renovation and expansion. Our team of designers worked with the client for over six years to create all-new experiences to reconnect the citizens of Los Angeles to the sky. Clear, strong graphic design was the main drive behind much of the project. Another challenge was to make often-complex astronomic principles understandable and inspirational to all visitors, regardless of background. One highlight, the centerpiece of the Observatory’s new lower floor, is the “Big Picture,” a single photograph of a tiny slice of the night sky that contains billions of stars and galaxies. At 150 feet long by 20 feet tall, it is the largest astronomical photograph ever made, and one of the largest porcelain enamel images ever commissioned.

“The timeless quality of the materials and organization of the exhibition creates an experience that feels authentic, authoritative and almost reverential. In contrast to much of today’s more retail-inspired exhibit design, this feels like it was made for today and forever.”