Illuminated at night, the Kiewit Luminarium is a symbol of the revitalization of Omaha, Nebraska’s Missouri River waterfront. The new science museum is named after its largest donor, the Kiewit Corporation, a locally based general contractor. On the other hand, the term “luminarium” reflects the illumination of the structure, while also evoking associations with curiosity and wonder. Inspired by the vernacular of midwestern machine sheds, HDR devised two staggered rectangular volumes for the institution which are clad in perforated aluminum panels and backlit at night.
