The National Children's Museum (NCM) - formerly the Capital Children's Museum in Washington - is set to reopen at its new home in Maryland, US, in 2013.

Part of the National Harbor development in Prince George's County, the 150,000sq ft (14,000sq m) building will represent six core content areas: the environment, health and well being, play, civic engagement, the arts and world cultures.

Designed by Connecticut architect Cesar Pelli, it will incorporate environmental features, including a wind turbine, a sun reflector and recycled materials.

Pelli said: "The design seeks to encourage and inspire children to think about their role in the community and the world."

Amaze Design, Roto Studios and Aldrich Pears are also involved in the project.

The NCM is projected to attract 600,000 visitors annually.

In the meantime, the museum's 'Launch Zone' will open at National Harbor this Saturday (25 April) to provide families with an opportunity to learn more about NCM's green features, participate in programmes related to the museum's six core content areas and share their ideas on what should be included in the new museum.