The Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame wanted more than a standard elevator interior — they wanted visitors immersed in the story of Indiana basketball the moment the doors opened. To create that emotional connection, the design centered around a historic photograph from the Indiana high school basketball state tournament at Butler Fieldhouse, now known as Hinkle Fieldhouse. For generations, the arena represented the heart of Indiana basketball culture, making it the perfect focal point for an unforgettable elevator experience.
Project Highlights
Custom immersive elevator interior
Historic Indiana basketball imagery
Museum-focused storytelling design
Easy collaboration and communication
Custom graphics and finish solutions
Visitor experience enhancement
Seamless integration into facility renovations
A Hall of Fame Experience — Before Visitors Even Reach the Exhibit Floor
Some projects start with a grand master plan.
This one started with:
“We probably ought to make our elevator look decent.”
And honestly? That’s what makes this story so great.
When the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame began renovating its museum in Newcastle, Indiana, the focus was on major upgrades — flooring, signage, HVAC, and modernizing the visitor experience throughout the building.
The elevator wasn’t originally the star of the show.
But once FabACab got involved, that changed quickly.
The Goal
Create an Elevator Worthy of Indiana Basketball History
The Hall of Fame wanted something more than a standard elevator interior. They wanted visitors to feel immersed in the story of Indiana basketball the moment the elevator doors opened. That meant designing a cab that connected emotionally with fans, alumni, families, and basketball lovers walking through the museum every day. The centerpiece became a historic photograph from the Indiana high school basketball state tournament at Butler Fieldhouse — now known as Hinkle Fieldhouse.
For decades, this was the heart of Indiana basketball culture. And now, it would become the heart of the elevator design.
The Transformation
From Functional Space to Immersive Experience
Instead of treating the elevator as just another utility space, the FabACab team helped transform it into part of the museum experience itself. The result? A fully customized elevator interior that immediately transports visitors into Indiana basketball history. As soon as the doors open, guests are surrounded by iconic imagery, vibrant visuals, and a design that feels deeply connected to the Hall of Fame’s mission.
According to Executive Director Chris May:
“As soon as the door opens, you’re immersed — you’re almost in that picture.”
That immersive feeling became one of the most memorable aspects of the renovation. What was once an afterthought became a conversation piece.
The Process
Easy, Collaborative, and Surprisingly Simple
One of the biggest surprises for the Hall of Fame team wasn’t just the final result — it was how easy the process was.
From the initial conversations through design and installation, the FabACab team worked closely with museum leadership to simplify every step.
“Every step along the way, it was very easy. Great communication. The finished product came out better than I could have fathomed.”
For organizations juggling large renovations, timelines, and multiple contractors, having a straightforward process matters.
That’s exactly what FabACab was built to do:
Simplify a process made difficult.
The Impact
An Underrated Space That Now Steals the Show
Elevators are often overlooked during renovations.
But when designed intentionally, they can completely change how people experience a building.
At the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame, the elevator now:
- Enhances the visitor experience
- Reinforces the museum’s identity
- Creates a memorable first impression
- Extends storytelling beyond the exhibits
- Adds visual energy to the facility
As Chris May put it:
“The way it really brings the cab to life — the vibrant look — it’s just so cool.”
Client Testimonial
“FabACab was fantastic, and I would highly recommend them to anyone considering doing elevator work. The way it really brings the cab to life — the vibrant look — it’s just so cool.”
— Chris May
Executive Director, Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame
Ready to Transform Your Elevator?
Whether you’re renovating a museum, modernizing a commercial building, or creating a branded experience for visitors, FabACab helps turn overlooked spaces into unforgettable ones.
Because great design shouldn’t stop at the elevator doors.