World Within a World

World Within the World is a project that explores the past and present of La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles relative to its context and artifacts embedded in the site. Scientists began to discover these fossils in the early 20th century and have slowly developed into the Page Museum and Hancock Park.

Today, the site is situated along Miracle Mile, and adjacent to multiple new developments, including LACMA and the Academy Museum. The site of the Tar Pits is neglected and overshadowed by its neighbors. It is bounded by a disturbing fence and exhibitions are buried under the soil.

The mission of our project is to unravel the magnificence of the unique geological site and open up the museum to showcase the history that is buried. Our vision for the project is to create a journey that carries people from the present to the past, which is manifested in the sequence and atmosphere of the design.