Philadelphia, PA
The Franklin Institute
Since 2000, B&F has worked with The Franklin Institute to renovate and expand one of the most-visited tourist attractions in Philadelphia, including nine separate phases of interior renovations, the Karabots Pavilion, and the implementation of their current Master Plan.
20+ Year Partnership Takes a World-class Science Center into the Future
Comprehensive Modernization
We managed nine phases of interior renovations resulting in the museum’s complete modernization. This included a comprehensive update of each exhibit and upgrades to the building's infrastructure. Our team carefully planned renovations to add multi-media and new AV systems to historic Franklin Hall to meet National Historic Preservation Standards.
Nicholas and Athena Karabots Pavilion
After a multi-year capital campaign, we assisted The Franklin Institute with the design and construction of their largest expansion. The Karabots Pavilion is a new $40 million, 56,000-square-foot LEED Silver addition that houses a feature exhibit on the human brain, a temporary exhibit gallery, and an education and conference center.
Specialized Funding, Unique Installations
We helped to manage the RACP grant process for the project and oversaw a massive art installation – the “Shimmer Wall” – made from thousands of hand-cut aluminum tiles carefully placed on the exterior wall.
New Master Plan
B&F recently engaged with The Franklin Institute to create a new Master Plan, helping them to select an architect after an international design search. The new plan will ensure their position as a world-class science museum as they prepare to celebrate their 200th anniversary in 2024.
Client Testimonial
“I had the good fortune to work with Becker & Frondorf in their role as Project Manager for nearly 20 years. As the Owner’s Representative, their team was superb in every aspect of their work. Every project came in on time and on budget. In several cases, the project was under budget because of their due-diligence and project management. They were a delight to work with and in fact, have become trusted friends. For any project, hire the best, hire Becker & Frondorf.”
Dennis Wint, Former President & CEO of The Franklin Institute, 1994-2014
Our Projects
Go BackView more of B&F’s wide range of iconic projects, from 13-story new hotels in Center City Philadelphia to sensitive renovations of historic buildings.
Project Management Services
Learn MoreB&F's Project Managers protect budgets, safeguard schedules, minimize disruptions, and coordinate the entire team, with a careful eye on quality.