njba a+u wtc

WTC Memorial, New York 2003

NJBA Architects & Urban Designers

Entry

Plans

Views

Concept The design concept consists of 3 elements, the remains of the towers (2) and a connecting wall (with underground link).
The tower locations have been compressed into the ground to provide contemplation courts. These are accessed through the memory wall.

Compression

The memory wall compresses space upon entry. On one side the wall consists of dense stone (or concrete with basalt and limestone aggregates) while on the other it is a lighter Cor-ten steel frame and columns.

Memory How does one remember an event beyond measure except through the mundane arts of counting and retelling? This design provides the sounding board against which these things can occur. It is an abstraction of the numbers killed, each reflected in a star like aperture in the stone (drilled to the illuminated interior). The stars form new constellations centred on the abstract location of the 90 or so affected countries. Their location on the wall is a reflection of their relative distance from the epicentre of 911.

Abstraction The wall is dense and impenetrable. The star apertures while small as individuals are impressive when seen as a collection. Only by reproducing a star field will this make sense. The countries are identified by engraved stainless steel poles, which emerge from an illuminated water trough. During the day the wall, which is aligned along a North South axis, presents a simple backdrop for visitors. The depth of the aperture will allow the visitor to see the stars even during daylight hours. At night the stars emerge to become a subtle and suitable witness.

Witness While there is a need to bear public witness there is a need for private remembrance. The courts have been developed to allow for private grief and contemplation. The public aspect of this must also be considered. 911 is a tragedy visited upon the world. There is a sacred aspect to the creation of such spaces. On the inner wall each name is engraved directly into the wall.

Sacred The courts are edged with white marble columns and are a reflection of the buildings that were demolished. Combined with the white quartz pebbles they define the sacred enclosure of the contemplation court.

Contemplation

The courts are lined in riven stone plates, which bear no names of victims. The court spaces are also occupied by a specific element to further enhance the special nature of the spaces. A Carpet of poppies can be found in the South Tower Court while water ponds and fountains dominate the North Tower Court. These spaces are made sacred by the enclosure and quiet by their topography.

Topography

The topography of the ground is a series of fractured planes. Between the planes lights and other furniture are located.

WTC Memorial, New York 2003 NJBA Architects & Urban Designers


Entry
Plans
Views

Concept	The design concept consists of 3 elements, the remains of the towers (2) and a connecting wall (with underground link). The tower locations have been compressed into the ground to provide contemplation courts. These are accessed through the memory wall.
Compression	The memory wall compresses space upon entry. On one side the wall consists of dense stone (or concrete with basalt and limestone aggregates) while on the other it is a lighter Cor-ten steel frame and columns.
Memory	How does one remember an event beyond measure except through the mundane arts of counting and retelling? This design provides the sounding board against which these things can occur. It is an abstraction of the numbers killed, each reflected in a star like aperture in the stone (drilled to the illuminated interior). The stars form new constellations centred on the abstract location of the 90 or so affected countries. Their location on the wall is a reflection of their relative distance from the epicentre of 911.
Abstraction	The wall is dense and impenetrable. The star apertures while small as individuals are impressive when seen as a collection. Only by reproducing a star field will this make sense. The countries are identified by engraved stainless steel poles, which emerge from an illuminated water trough. During the day the wall, which is aligned along a North South axis, presents a simple backdrop for visitors. The depth of the aperture will allow the visitor to see the stars even during daylight hours. At night the stars emerge to become a subtle and suitable witness.
Witness	While there is a need to bear public witness there is a need for private remembrance. The courts have been developed to allow for private grief and contemplation. The public aspect of this must also be considered. 911 is a tragedy visited upon the world. There is a sacred aspect to the creation of such spaces. On the inner wall each name is engraved directly into the wall.
Sacred	The courts are edged with white marble columns and are a reflection of the buildings that were demolished. Combined with the white quartz pebbles they define the sacred enclosure of the contemplation court.
Contemplation	The courts are lined in riven stone plates, which bear no names of victims. The court spaces are also occupied by a specific element to further enhance the special nature of the spaces. A Carpet of poppies can be found in the South Tower Court while water ponds and fountains dominate the North Tower Court. These spaces are made sacred by the enclosure and quiet by their topography.
Topography	The topography of the ground is a series of fractured planes. Between the planes lights and other furniture are located.