Glenn L. Martin Maryland Aviation Museum

Founded in 1990, the Glenn L. Martin Maryland Aviation Museum is dedicated to the promotion, preservation, and documentation of aviation and space history in Maryland.  Since the founding of this museum at the Martin State Airport in Middle River, it has lacked adequate space to display much of the archival material or equipment that they have in storage.  After Lockheed Martin offered them a 13,000 square foot warehouse the museum group began thinking about expanding their displays and offering special student programs - and asked the Neighborhood Design Center to assist them in looking at how this could be accomplished.

The team of NDC volunteers recruited to work with the client included: architect Harry Hess III of Architectural Design Works, architect Wisa Kompayak and landscape architects Brook Ingram and Aspasia Xypolia from EDSA, and graphic designer Karen Pang of R2integrated. The architects assisted the client in developing a program plan and identifying spatial needs - which included a new education center with planes, audiovisual equipment, flight simulators, computer workstations, student classroom, play area, gift shop, and a simulated factory for hands-on activities.  The client also needed spatial flexibility for special gatherings, meetings and events.  Additionally, low-cost and transferable materials and display mechanisms were a priority (as they are thinking of constructing a new facility in the longer-term).

Harry Hess, with many years of experience in museum design and aviation, advised the client on design concepts that would meet code requirements, include transferable materials, and follow a phasing process that would best move them from idea to reality. The landscape architects focused on exterior and entrance landscaping and circulation concepts in addition to working with the architects on the interior layout. Ms Pang provided information regarding graphics to help the client in thinking about signage to direct visitors to the museum within the Martin State Airport site, entrance definition, and wayfinding within the museum that also served as interior decoration and that would tie in with their longer-term marketing strategy.  The final package included an interior space plan and recommendations regarding ceiling/wall/floor treatments, lighting, baffling, partitions, and displays.



The Museum is partnering with a number of national and local organizations in developing this facility and its educational programs, including the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, the Experimental Aircraft Association, Civil Air Patrol, Md. Air National Guard, Silver Wings, and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Baltimore County, and the State of Maryland.  The National Aeronautics and Space Administration and Federal Aviation Administration will contribute student educational content and materials.

The Education Center in the expanded museum will help to motivate students in their studies and introduce them to the many career opportunities related to aviation/aerospace/technical fields.  NDC looks forward to seeing this new multi-use regional aviation and educational center get off the ground!