Schmidt Associates was honored Oct. 22 with the 2025 Monumental Award, the Indy Chamber’s most esteemed recognition, highlighting the built environment in the ten-county Indinapolis region. Schmidt Associates was awarded for its work on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum in Indianapolis.
Presented at the the Indy Chamber’s 48th annual Monumental Awards ceremony at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the project exemplifies design excellence and innovation, blending contemporary architecture with a deep respect for Indiana’s racing history. Indy Chamber’s 2025 award winners reflect the talent and collaboration that continue to advance Central Indiana’s design, development, and economic vitality.
The project’s recognition underscores the transformative power of design to celebrate the momentum propelling Indianapolis toward a more vibrant, connected future.
The reimagined museum serves as a gateway to Indiana’s motorsports, combining modern design with immersive visitor experiences. The project integrates advanced exhibit technology, improved accessibility, and flexible public spaces to engage new generations of fans and learners.
The IMS Museum’s $60.5M renovation includes over 40,000 square feet of additional space, housing seven permanent galleries, a new mezzanine dedicated to displaying non-vehicle artifacts, and a lower level (previously restricted to only select tours). Their “Starting Line Experience” places guests in an immersive video space showcasing the pageantry leading up to the start of the Indianapolis 500. A “pit stop challenge” invites guests to learn the tools and equipment of the racing trade. Every design choice aims to capture the energy of race day while providing year-round community value.
Led by Schmidt Associates, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum project exemplifies the firm’s collaborative, purpose-driven approach to design. With a portfolio that spans education, civic, and cultural spaces, Schmidt Associates continues to shape Indiana’s built environment through creativity and client partnership. Their work on the museum stands as a tribute to both Speedway’s global legacy and the firm’s enduring commitment to community impact and innovation.
