Smithsonian Institution

Molina Family Latino Gallery

A Gallery Celebrating the Historical and Cultural Legacy of U.S. Latinos

The Molina Family Latino Gallery, set within the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History, is the first dedicated museum space on the National Mall to celebrate the U.S. Latino experience. The gallery offers a wide range of stories and information about Latino contributions within the U.S. It includes digital media interactives, artifacts, contemporary art displays, a theater, and a Learning Lounge. Mueller provided comprehensive mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering for the project.

The Smithsonian’s goal of reaching “diverse, intergenerational audiences” was an essential focus of the planning and design of the gallery. The design team used sensory mapping, based on sensory stimuli, to document and track visitor experiences and help design an inclusive experience that extends well beyond ADA regulatory requirements. The gallery addresses accessibility in multiple ways, including physical space, graphics, and access to content.

Consulting Services
  • HVAC Systems
  • Electrical Power
  • Plumbing Systems
Architect

Quinn Evans

Client History
  1. 2027

    Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden Revitalization

  2. 2026

    National Air and Space Museum Revitalization

...
The space at the center of the gallery is named "Foro." In Foro you will find eight, eight-foot-tall interactive monitors. You can explore 11 first-person oral histories from Latino and Latina entrepreneurs, teachers, activists, community leaders, and artists.
The Smithsonian Center for Learning and Digital Access created the Smithsonian Learning Lab to inspire the discovery and creative use of its rich digital materials.
"We made an early decision to make the gallery as accessible as possible. We felt it was the right thing to do. The ‘aha’ moment was that it made it better for everyone."
Eduardo Díaz
Acting Deputy Director, National Museum of the American Latino

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