New York Construction Report staff writer
A $7.8 million project to renovate and expand space at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum has been completed by XBR Inc., creating a new theater space in the heart of Brooklyn.
“The Brooklyn Children’s Museum has always brought families together in a safe, enjoyable educational environment,” NYC Department of Design and Construction (DDC) Commissioner Thomas Foley said at the ribbon cutting ceremony this week. “The new, state-of-the art auditorium is a modern event space for the borough now, with the best lighting, audio and other technologies that Brooklyn deserves.”
The two-story 3,220-sq. ft. Auditorium has glass fiber reinforced gypsum panels along the ceiling and walls, which were custom made and selected for sound absorption. Panels give the space a bright, sleek and clean look by covering wiring for all of the automatic controlled systems. All interior systems were upgraded including the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, lighting system, electrical system, sound system and audio-visual system. Fire protection was also enhanced.
The project, which began in September 2020, was designed by Studio Joseph under DDC’s Project Excellence Program and constructed by XBR Inc.
The Auditorium has a new stage along with 162 seats, six accessible seats on the main floor and 12 seats on the mezzanine.
“The Brooklyn Children’s Museum is among the most important institutions in the borough, providing a safe family space for recreation and education, exploration and discovery. The auditorium expands and enhances this neighborhood gem, diversifying its contributions to our community,” said Council Member Chi Ossé. “I commend the DDC and DCLA for their work and investment.
“The Brooklyn Children’s Museum has been a staple for our community,” said Assembly Member Brian Cunningham. “This upgrade will allow various programming and opportunities for the public at large. Crown Heights is transitioning into a mecca for visual arts, music and performance, and culture.”
The Brooklyn Children’s Museum located in Crown Heights was founded in 1899. The newly renovated multi-purpose auditorium will be used for many purposes including after school program, movies, music and theatre performances, lectures and educational programming along with opportunities for the public to rent the space
