‘Building Stories’ Exhibition Explores the Architecture of Children’s Books

The National Building Museum in Washington, DC, has unveiled a captivating exhibition, "Building Stories," inviting visitors of all ages to embark on a journey into the enchanting worlds crafted within the pages of beloved children's books. Curated by children's book author and historian Leonard Marcus, this immersive exhibit delves into the symbiotic relationship between architecture, storytelling, and the formation of connections children establish with their communities.

Opening its doors on January 21, the 4,000-square-foot exhibition unfolds like a storybook, spanning over 200 years and featuring over 150 books from 28 countries. The exhibit, designed by the Portland-based firm Plus and Greater Than, unfolds across four galleries, each designed to captivate and inspire.

Building Blocks

Visitors encounter the foundational elements of language and the built environment as they enter the first gallery. A mesmerizing wall adorned with alphabet books from around the world welcomes guests, setting the stage for the immersive exploration ahead. This section sparks curiosity about language and structure's role in shaping how children perceive the world around them.

Expressions of Home

Home, a central theme in children's literature, takes center stage in the second gallery. A round theater at its heart brings books to life through light, projection, and sound. Classics like Ezra Jack Keats's "The Snowy Day" and Faith Ringgold's "Tar Beach" come alive, prompting children to contemplate their spaces. Marcus emphasizes the diverse nature of these spaces, sometimes hospitable, sometimes alien, fostering introspection and imagination in young minds.

A Child's Perspective

The third gallery invites exploration of how children perceive the built environment. Playing with scale and spatial perception, this section features familiar DC monuments and hidden gems for locals to discover. The imaginative landscape challenges visitors to consider different viewpoints, promoting a deeper understanding of architecture and space through the eyes of a child.

Creating a Better World

The final gallery serves as a call to action, highlighting books that challenge readers to envision and create a better world. Meticulously designed archways guide visitors seamlessly, including a tunnel creating the illusion of shrinking in size. This section encourages reflection on the potential impact of architecture and storytelling in shaping a brighter future.

Unveiling the Creative Process

"Building Stories" offers a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of iconic children's books. Original sketches, architectural models, and rare mockups, such as those from "Goodnight Moon," provide insight into the creative journey. A special installation by writer and illustrator David Macaulay delves into the orderly and chaotic sides of the creative process behind his book "Rome Antics."

Rediscovering the Joy of Children's Books

For adults, the exhibition is an opportunity to reconnect with the wonder and curiosity sparked by childhood picture books. Drawings referencing literary characters like Winnie the Pooh and the Mad Hatter are sprinkled throughout, reminding visitors of timeless classics. Marcus emphasizes that children's books are a global treasure, accessible to readers of all ages, encouraging a renewed appreciation for the diverse and imaginative worlds created in these literary masterpieces.

Community Space

Beyond its role as an exhibition, "Building Stories" doubles as a community space, featuring hands-on activities and reading nooks. Each visitor receives a sketchbook, encouraging doodling and reflection while collecting stamps from each gallery. Daniel Meyers, founder and architect at Plus and Greater Than, underscores the importance of providing families with a welcoming place to explore and create lasting memories.

Growing Up with "Building Stories"

A bold initiative by the museum, "Building Stories," will run until 2034, offering a continuous stream of new programming and diverse books over the years. The goal is to invite children (and adults) to return, growing alongside the exhibit and gaining new perspectives on the built environment. Leonard Marcus hopes that children will "grow up with this show," experiencing its transformative magic at different stages of their lives.

In essence, "Building Stories" at the National Building Museum is not just an exhibition but a literary odyssey and an architectural adventure, inviting visitors to unlock their imagination and embrace the enduring magic of children's books.