Trigger revitalised the ‘Great Hall’ for the National Museum of Australia (NMA) – the NMA’s arrival point, featuring the ‘Australian Defining Moments’ exhibition. We realised an ambitious holistic scheme, involving all Museum departments, which has transformed the experience of the space. Trigger’s remit was to address a multitude of issues and objectives such as to: create an inspiring interpretive and arrival experience; clarify navigation; resolve problems of overlapping functionality; display and protect museum objects in a large and busy space; and imbue the space with an open, airy and uncluttered quality. Our intent was to create a distinctive, awe-inspiring experience and clearly communicate the Museum’s charter of bringing to life the rich and diverse stories of Australia through compelling objects, ideas and events. The design response included: innovative interpretive and structures, a new reception and cloaking pod, reconfigured lighting, clarified navigation and enhanced functionality. Following an ethos to streamline Trigger’s design removed all inconsistent showcases, desks, furniture and objects. We delivered an ‘open’ spatial experience whilst also addressing the Museum’s brief to display over 50 objects of various shapes and sizes. We developed a unique dual design language concept that responds uniquely to the distinctive architecture. A dysfunctional space was transformed into a welcoming, educational and inspiring experience.