An important threshold into Raleigh’s Central Business District, the corner of Morgan and Blount Streets had for decades greeted visitors with an unattractive abandoned service station.  The once-thriving property had deteriorated over the course of multiple owners and sat vacant for several years. In 2013, it was purchased by Marbles Kids Museum in a tax foreclosure sale, as Marbles board of Directors sought to secure the property’s future use as a community asset on the museum campus, complementary and adjacent to Wake County-owned facilities. It was a bold move by community leaders who envisioned an enlivened public space as a gift to the City, to be enjoyed by all.

The timing of the project was fortuitous to provide public open space while the City of Raleigh’s nearby Moore Square Park was closed for a major renovation.  Team Marbles collaborated with Raleigh Murals Project and local artist Lisa Gaither to paint a significant graphic on the non-historic side of a contributing building to the National Register and local Moore Square Historic District. The colorful new mural provides a rich backdrop for a welcoming public courtyard.

Utilizing a combination of natural plantings, turf, benches/play elements, and high-quality paving, Color Pop Corner is an inviting and inclusive gathering space ripe for spontaneous public activities.  The project was completed just in time for Raleigh and Marbles to host the Association of Children’s Museums Conference for the first time ever, bringing visitors from all over the world to our city to experience firsthand why Raleigh is a leader in creativity and innovation and why Marbles is one of the most successful children’s museums in the nation.

Color Pop Corner welcomes visitors of all ages at all hours and has already become one of the most popular photo opportunities in the City.