Field of Uncertainty Museum

Integrating active excavation sites was a deliberate choice to merge the work of preserving artifacts with the process of discovery. The design allows visitors to see ongoing excavations alongside preserved elements. By placing excavation areas within the research building, the museum becomes a place where history is both maintained and revealed in real time. This approach shows that the work of uncovering and protecting the past is part of a continuous process, making the museum a site of living research.

The sequence that simulates submersion was inspired by the tar itself and its role in preserving history. This entry experience creates a sense of being drawn into the site’s layered past. By experiencing the feeling of descending beneath the tar, visitors are set up for a closer look at the preservation and discovery processes that define the La Brea Tar Pits. This journey helps to frame the historical context and encourages a deeper engagement with the site's story.

The concrete cantilevers required careful planning to balance structural integrity with the desired visual effect. Detailed simulations were conducted to ensure proper load distribution and safety. We used advanced reinforcement techniques and modular design to allow the cantilevers to extend while remaining stable. These elements support the museum’s idea of linking preserved history with ongoing discovery, using the structure itself to mirror that balance.