The recently opened Route 66 Visitor's Center is a celebration of Albuquerque's local history and cruising culture. 5TM designed and executed this long-term installation. Against the backdrop of large-scale mural work by Marcine Franckowiak, the space is anchored by a custom box office with a working backlit marquee, combining native architecture and art deco styles with tile work inspired by the historic KiMo Theatre.

Underfoot, a custom epoxy floor simulates the experience of cruising Route 66 while touring the center. A layered diorama references Albuquerque’s beloved local lowriders and landmark spaces. This installation was created by 5TM with local artist Dante Betsch, who developed the graphical presentation combining and adapting archival photographs.

Detailed custom acrylic display cases built on a durable chrome-tube framework showcase a collection of 1/24-scale model lowriders. These cases feature LED-illuminated bases and mirrored surfaces that highlight every vehicle detail, including the undersides. They are framed by decorative backlit panels with custom vinyl lettering and filigree by local artist Sam Torres. This modular display system also incorporates 12 interchangeable panels designed to evolve over time with future artwork from the community.

Finally, a custom dry erase board designed by Dante Betsch rounds out the space, featuring a dynamic hodgepodge of landmark buildings found throughout the South Valley.

Design Genius provided by Blossom Merz.