MSI Aviation Gallery

Museum of Science and Industry | Chicago, IL | 2008

The Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago decided to rethink the display of their extensive aircraft collection.

What It Was

The Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago decided to rethink the display of their extensive aircraft collection. The result was a large collection of aircraft in one gallery of the museum that needed re-lighting, with a very modest budget.

What We Did

Defining the client's goals and desires is critical in all projects, but especially so for those with limited budgets and timelines. Lightswitch worked with the museum team to define exactly where they would realize maximum return on investment and allow for future expansion, focusing on infrastructure and control system upgrades as well as fixture purchases. We used as much of the existing MSI inventory as possible to ensure real value was returned for every dollar spent.

Why It Worked

Lightswitch treated each aircraft in a theatrical yet appropriate manner, using lighting to impart a sense of motion and realistic texture. The museum was delighted with this real world lighting approach, which also aided in the visual separation of the aircraft. Lightswitch pulled out all the stops to ensure the installation was completed in time for the annual American Association of Museums meeting that was hosted by MSI.