Palm Springs Air Museum breaks ground on significant expansion project, adding new facade, 9,000 square feet of new space
The expansion, which museum officials hope to complete within 24 months, will include a new facade inspired by Palm Springs architecture and a learning center.
The Palm Springs Air Museum recently broke ground on a significant expansion and renovation, aiming to transform it into a premier destination for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs.
Driving the news: The 9,200-square-foot expansion, which museum officials hope to complete within 24 months, includes enlarged areas for queuing and ticketing, a new facade inspired by wind turbines and Palm Springs’ iconic Midcentury Modern architecture, and the Ronald M. Auen Learning Center, which will enable the museum to host a variety of educational programs.
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At issue: A spokesperson for the companies involved in the expansion—national architecture firm HED and Cioffi Architect — said the goal of the expansion is not just modernization but also preserving the Palm Springs Air Museum’s historical significance.
What they’re saying: “We are thrilled to see this project come to life,” said Fred Bell, vice chairman at the museum. “Our collaboration with HED and Cioffi Architect has resulted in a design that respects the museum’s historical significance while enhancing our educational facilities and providing modern amenities for future generations to enjoy.”
What to expect: Aside from the learning center, there will also be a new multi-purpose room and a gift shop with corporate offices. Enlarged areas for queuing and ticketing to facilitate better pedestrian flow are also planned. The new facade will help protect the museum’s historical archives.
Zoom in: The 25-year-old museum contains more than 70 vintage flying and static airframes from World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and Operation Desert Storm, displayed throughout the 91,000 square feet of open hangars and on the tarmac.
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