Designing a memorial and museum to honor the nation’s cultural memory and emotional reaction to the events of 9/11

National September 11 Memorial and Museum at the WTC

The World Trade Center Foundation wanted to preserve the nation’s cultural memory and emotional reaction to the events of September 11, 2001. They engaged us to help with the National September 11 Memorial & Museum.

We served a dual role as design architect for the Memorial Museum and the associate architect for the Memorial Plaza—providing architecture and planning services. Key to our approach in capturing the site’s emotional gravity, we created a space that resonates with those who lived through 9/11 while conveying the significance and impact to generations who did not witness the event firsthand was

After observing how people were drawn to the perimeter fencing to bear witness, our design team created a contemplative descent into the site. Concrete—both raw and polished—defines the 70-foot-deep (21-metre-deep) excavation, with two key elements: the Tower Volumes and the Ribbon. The Tower Volumes align with the original Twin Towers' footprints, preserving a tangible link to history, while the Ribbon’s gently sloping descent guides visitors toward bedrock, progressively revealing a contemplative space.

Surrounded by other complex mega-developments directly impacting its design and execution, we navigated immense construction challenges. The museum needed to integrate seamlessly with the 9/11 Memorial, the PATH station and transportation hub, the Central Chiller Plant, and the secure vehicular access system for site-wide loading and servicing.

With a design that honors those who perished and preserves the historical narrative, the World Trade Center Foundation can offer a space where visitors can engage with the memory of 9/11 in a personal and impactful way.