The Strong National Museum of Play

Nestled in the heart of Rochester, New York, The Strong National Museum of Play is the world’s only collections-based museum devoted solely to play.

It is a vibrant symbol of imagination and creativity, and its expansion is not merely an addition of space but a significant chapter in the city’s regeneration story. The client was renovating and expanding to help match the updates happening in the community.

The expansion, skillfully managed by Project Architect Craig Jensen and Project Manager Michael Ellison of CJS Architects and executed by LeChase Construction, adds a staggering 90,000 square feet to the museum in a style that complements the developing “Neighborhood of Play.”

This new, walkable neighborhood aims to revitalize the downtown area, embedding The Strong Museum as a central, vibrant hub in the community.

The choice of Fundermax panels for The Strong Museum’s feature rainscreen facade and soffit was more than a mere architectural decision; it was a strategic move aligning with the project’s design continuity.

Fundermax offered durable, versatile panels with lots of decor options that could fit their budget. Additionally, the Fundermax team’s expertise in layout optimization and panel yield was crucial in maximizing both the aesthetic and functional value of the museum’s facade.

The architects were already familiar with the benefits and capabilities of exterior phenolic wall panels and recognized Fundermax as a standout solution. Fundermax’s wide range of panel sizes facilitated material optimization and fit seamlessly into the museum’s budget constraints. Additionally, Fundermax panels’ double-sided nature and color-matching screws provided unrivaled versatility.

The project’s outcome is a testament to the successful integration of Fundermax panels with the existing design. Fundermax panel reliability and consistency ensured a smooth installation process and a stunning result.

The museum now boasts an eye-catching, 3D aesthetic rainscreen facade that draws the attention of visitors and passersby alike.

The local representative from Fundermax, CAS Reps, played a pivotal role in optimizing the layout of the panels, ensuring a high yield and fulfilling the architects’ design intent.

The ease of installation and the panel versatility played crucial roles in material optimization, addressing both aesthetic aspirations and practical concerns.

If you are interested in a more detailed explanation with more images, please download our written and visual case study available here.