Next-Level Play
FAMily Discovery Center
Climb Into the Story
Tucked inside a massive 175,000 sq ft museum, the FAMily Discovery Center is a brand-new space built to get kids moving, exploring, and engaging with the world around them. The concept came together through a close collaboration between Storyline Studio, illustrator Mark Oliver, and the FAM curators—blending authentic cultural storytelling with a globally informed design approach. Boss Display was brought in as a specialty fabricator for the large-scale climber that weaves through the entire space. From the start, the goal was clear—create something that doesn’t just look great, but fully immerses visitors in the environments, stories, and traditions of the 39 Tribal Nations.
Built for Discovery
This project came with some real-world constraints. Much of the building’s structure was already in place before we got involved, which meant our engineering had to be dialed in from day one. Normally, we’d pre-assemble everything in our shop, but here we had to build custom temporary setups to simulate site conditions and make sure everything would fit and function perfectly during install. Hanging these large climber sections was no small task, and every piece of safety rope had to be carefully installed and lashed on-site. It was a hands-on, precision-driven process from start to finish.
The space has been outfitted with graphic panels and wraps that transform the space into an immersive popup book experience.
Made to Move
The finished climber creates a layered experience for kids to explore. Starting at ground level with an anthill-inspired entry, visitors can work their way up to a mid-level platform. From there, the journey continues straight upward through a vertical climb. This chute connects them directly to a long, coiling climber section where they can traverse obstacles like slanted rock walls and use guide ropes to finally reach the eagle's nest at the end. Along the way, the space comes alive with subtle environmental details, including lighting that shifts to reflect different seasons. It’s all designed to encourage movement, curiosity, and discovery at every turn.
“We really made use of their expertise and their knowledge and understanding of how these spaces work... The Boss team was really an exceptional partner.”
The Finished Experience
In the end, this project is a perfect example of what happens when strong design meets solid fabrication. The result is a one-of-a-kind environment that blends physical play with meaningful storytelling. It’s not just something kids climb on—it’s something they experience. And for us, it’s a great showcase of how thoughtful engineering and hands-on fabrication can bring ambitious ideas to life in a way that truly connects with people.
Client Testimonial
Features:
Upperworld Path | Serving as a connection between the Hawk’s Nest and Treehouse, this winding pathway provides unique obstacles for guests like various inclined sections with rock climbing holds.
Treehouse Chute | The straight vertical climbing chute provides a unique way for guests to get from the Treehouse above down to the Donut Hammock platform below.
Donut Hammock Netting | Sitting over 11 feet above the ground floor, the raised platform gives guests an aerial view of the gallery. The exposed netting also allows visitors to interact with those at the top of the Platform Climber.
Platform Climber | This ant-hill style climber is outfitted with graphic elements inviting guests in as they make their way through the zig zagging platforms.
Other Featured Work
