Kiewit Luminarium

The Kiewit Luminarium is an innovative community space and learning environment that is part workshop, part museum. It serves as a dynamic space where people of all ages, identities, and backgrounds can explore extraordinary phenomena at the intersection of science, art, and human perception through interactive displays and engaging exhibits. Thought of as a “container,” the building’s form is inspired by the vernacular of Nebraskan agricultural buildings, with an un-precious interior design that leaves HVAC equipment and raw materials intentionally exposed to be discovered, enabling the building to function as a kind of exhibit in and of itself. The interior space is designed to be warm and inviting to suggest that science is friendly, familiar and approachable. The interior walls are constructed with custom-milled 4-foot by 8-foot sheets of plywood that act as a “pegboard” for interactivity and modularity. Once inside, eyes are immediately drawn to the colorful, large-scale stellated icosahedron structure hanging overhead, one of several immersive exhibits integrated within the architecture. Glass walls offer glimpses into the flexible classroom and gift shop on either side as intuitive wayfinding guides visitors around the corner into the main exhibition space. Activity is everywhere – kids engaging with exhibits and playing in the geometry playground, families enjoying a meal in the cafe, and creators using the maker space – visible by way of the open-concept design, which not only creates exciting energy but also ensures the space can adapt and change to multiple exhibit configurations and possible future uses. Vertical windows allow natural light to serve as the building’s primary lighting source during the daytime and offer visitors unobstructed views of the Missouri River. The dialogue between building and nature creates a strong sense of place for visitors to learn about themselves, the surrounding community, and the world. Not only is Kiewit Luminarium an immersive science center, but it’s also a workplace for over forty Luminators who need to engage with visitors and imagine new and exciting exhibits. The design supports employee success by integrating a fully outfitted exhibit fabrication room, maker space, administration offices, and kitchen area throughout the building. As the day turns to night, the interior transforms into a colorful, multi-sensory environment for entertaining adults and hosting community and private events. The restrained interior design approach supports this transition through a highly curated application of raw building materials. On the main floor, the plywood wall paneling datum emphasizes the riverfront views and grounds the large volume of space. Acoustic baffles for sound absorption are celebrated above the datum with feature lighting. Visitors can make their way upstairs through the two-story grid exhibit, main staircase, or elevators to enjoy more exhibits and peek over the railing to observe the activity happening below. With every step, the built environment invites eventgoers to explore their surroundings.