The National Geographic Society has opened its expanded Museum of Exploration. The more than $300 million redevelopment transforms its Washington, D.C., headquarters into a larger, more accessible destination for visitors. The project combined new construction, adaptive reuse, and immersive exhibits to create more than 9,290 m² (100,000 sf) of new public space while remaining fully operational throughout construction.

The expansion officially opened on June 26. The redevelopment added a larger museum, a nighttime courtyard experience, an education center, retail space, and a new state-of-the-art theater created from the building’s existing auditorium. The project was funded through fundraising efforts and donor contributions.

The redevelopment also prioritized sustainability and accessibility. The project is pursuing LEED Platinum certification through green construction practices and waste diversion. Visitors will find exhibit signage in English and Spanish, Braille wayfinding in both languages, captioning, visual descriptions, American Sign Language (ASL) throughout media experiences, and tactile photographs in the “In Focus” gallery.

JLL’s Project and Development Services (PDS) team managed the redevelopment and coordinated work across the occupied headquarters. The firm served as the primary liaison between the National Geographic Society, the design team, contractors, and regulatory agencies. JLL also guided approvals through the Historic Preservation Review Board and the Board of Zoning Adjustment, managed project revisions, coordinated agency responses, and supported public hearings.

Logistical challenges

Architect Hickok Cole designed the project, while general contractor HITT led construction. JLL also monitored contractor performance, contract compliance, and project risk throughout the redevelopment.

The company says working in an occupied building created significant logistical challenges. It implemented risk management strategies to minimize disruptions and maintain daily operations.

“JLL was an instrumental piece to our complex project,” said Ryan Sokoloski, vice president of facilities and capital planning at the National Geographic Society. “Their project management team’s expertise helped guide contractors, vendors, and stakeholders in the right direction and was pivotal in the project’s success.”

“This project showcases JLL’s expertise in delivering large-scale, multi-faceted expansions while maintaining daily operations,” says Mark Ahern, managing director of JLL PDS Projects.