The Airbus Aeronautics Museum & Experience Center, located near the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC, was envisioned as a cultural destination where visitors can engage with the past, present, and future of global aviation. Designed by John Jessen, in collaboration with Hornall Anderson for experience design, the 20,000-square-foot space functions as an immersive museum and interpretive environment—one that celebrates Airbus’s pioneering role in aerospace innovation while educating the public about the technologies and ideas shaping the future of flight.
The design challenge centered on crafting a dynamic experience center capable of translating complex aeronautical concepts into accessible, compelling narratives. Jessen’s approach blended exhibition design, storytelling, and interactive technologies to create a sequence of spaces that guide visitors through the world of Airbus. From large-scale digital installations to hands-on displays, the museum encourages exploration of the people, aircraft, and innovations driving the company’s global impact.
The spatial organization invites visitors on a curated journey—moving through themed galleries, interactive exhibits, and immersive environments that illuminate the evolution of aeronautics. High-tech displays, physical models, media installations, and experiential zones were integrated to cultivate a deeper understanding of Airbus’s contributions to safety, sustainability, engineering, and technological advancement.
Recognizing the importance of adaptability in contemporary cultural spaces, the Experience Center also includes flexible environments capable of hosting public programs, special exhibitions, screenings, receptions, and educational events. These multipurpose areas allow the museum to support both intimate gatherings and high-profile engagements tied to aerospace policy, STEAM education, and global aviation leadership.
The result is a cultural venue that functions as both museum and innovation showcase—one that elevates public understanding of aviation while reinforcing Airbus’s role as a world leader in aeronautics. Through an interplay of technology, design, and narrative, the Experience Center offers visitors a memorable and forward-looking perspective on the future of flight.
Project location: Washington, DC
Project size: 20,424 SF
Work previously completed by John Jessen as Principal Architect & Architect-of-Record with VOA Associates (now Stantec).