Exterior Façade

As with any transformation, there comes change. For the transformation of Universe of Energy into Energy in Motion, there came some changes as well as additions to its iconic ultramodernist facade.

While the current show building remained intact, it received a larger and taller extension at its back to expand the current floor space. Retaining the diamond shape, the new extension was designed with architect Frank Gehry. Towering waveforms and shapes now rise above the facade as if reaching out to the skies.

Cool tones dominated the entry plaza, symbolizing potential or stored energy and an individual at rest. Patches of blue covered the planters that contrasted with the original dark mirrored tiles leftover from Universe of Energy. The original Reflecting Pool and its reflective capstone centerpiece were likewise retained, though new signage bearing the pavilion's new name has been installed on the pool. The original light orange-toned pathways are now stone grey, completing the cool-toned look for the entry plaza.

Moving forward to the former Universe of Energy façade, its columns or the protruding "ribs" that flank both sides of it are now painted in warm tones, the same colors of the wall pads between them were for the pavilion's opening in 1982. These symbolized the gradual transition from potential to kinetic energy and an individual beginning to work. A light yellow joined the original color scheme, helping blend in the original Universe of Energy facade with Gehry's light titanium grey extension.

Randomized-looking waveforms, curved to reflect the Floridian sun and almost changing the extension's light grey color to nearly white, sat on top of the pre-existing roof and the new extension's higher roof, blending the two structures together. These symbolized the "infinite potential" that an individual now has after receiving energy and proceeding to do work "that moves the world, one day at a time."

The entrance portals into the Universe of Energy pavilion were also changed for the Energy in Motion transformation. The original geometric tiled entrance wall was ripped open in favor of black-framed glass walls that opened up the original pre-show area to let in more natural light. The pre-show area itself became an atrium filled with exhibits on the daily applications of energy, a meet-and-greet space for characters (including the pavilion's mascot, Adam the Atom), and several flat rides for the family to enjoy.