Grey Matter: A Revolutionary Children's Museum by Martin Summers

Engaging Young Minds Through Innovative Architecture

The design of Grey Matter is rooted in Summers' belief that children are naturally curious, always seeking opportunities to playfully explore and understand the world around them. The museum's design is a reflection of this curiosity, with its innovative architectural expression that activates the senses, ignites imagination, and heightens the anticipation of new discoveries through movement in space.

Grey Matter is not just a building, but an interactive experience. Its unique organization requires occupants to pause, reflect, and engage with the environment cognitively and sensually. The complexity of the design makes it difficult to truly understand as a whole, allowing each visitor to create their own unique experience within this dynamic public space.

The project began on January 13, 2014, and underwent further revisions post-competition for three months. It was an entry into the International Ideas Competition "Designing a Louisville Children’s Museum, Revitalizing a Downtown Edge," organized by competition sponsors. The competition ran from August 15, 2013, to February 10, 2014.

Grey Matter's design leverages both internal and external environments, revealing the urban context as an extension of the museum. It is a testament to Summers' belief that the city itself is worthy of exploration and attention. This innovative approach has earned Grey Matter the Silver A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2017, a prestigious accolade awarded to designs that showcase outstanding expertise and innovation.

Grey Matter is a product of Summers' PLUS-SUM Studio, with assistance from Hans Koesters. The project is a testament to their shared vision of creating spaces that engage the human mind and encourage exploration and discovery. Through Grey Matter, they have created not just a museum, but a space that truly embodies the spirit of childhood curiosity.