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This memorial proposes a space that resonates with the feelings of loss and absence that were generated
by the destruction of the World Trade Center and the taking of thousands of lives on September 11, 2001
and February 26, 1993. It is located in a field of trees that is interrupted by two large voids containing
recessed pools. The pools and the ramps that surround them encompass the footprints of the twin towers.
A cascade of water that describes the perimeter of each square feeds the pools with a continuous stream.
They are large voids, open and visible reminders of the absence.
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The surface of the memorial plaza is punctuated by the linear rhythms of rows of deciduous trees,
forming informal clusters, clearings and groves.
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This surface consists of a composition of stone pavers, plantings and low ground cover. Through
its annual cycle of rebirth, the living park extends and deepens the experience of the memorial.
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Bordering each pool is a pair of ramps that lead down to the memorial spaces. Descending into the
memorial, visitors are removed from the sights and sounds of the city and immersed in a cool darkness.
As they proceed, the sound of water falling grows louder, and more daylight filters in from below. At
the bottom of their descent, they find themselves behind a thin curtain of water, staring out at an enormous
pool. Surrounding this pool is a continuous ribbon of names.
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The enormity of this space and the multitude of names that form this endless ribbon underscore the
vast scope of the destruction. Standing there at the water's edge, looking at a pool of water that is
flowing away into an abyss, a visitor to the site can sense that what is beyond this curtain of water
and ribbon of names is inaccessible.
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The names of the deceased will be arranged in no particular order around the pools. After carefully
considering different arrangements, I have found that any arrangement that tries to impose meaning through
physical adjacency will cause grief and anguish to people who might be excluded from that process, furthering
the sense of loss that they are already suffering.
The haphazard brutality of the attacks is reflected
in the arrangement of names, and no attempt is made to impose order upon this suffering. The selfless
sacrifices of rescue workers could be acknowledged with their agency's insignia next to their names.
Visitors to the site, including family members and friends of the deceased, would be guided by on-site
staff or a printed directory to the specific location of each name. For those whose deceased were never
physically identified, the location of the name marks a spot that is their own.
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In between the two pools is a short passageway that links them at this lower level. A single alcove
is located along this passageway, containing a small dais where visitors can light a candle or leave
an artifact in memory of loved ones. Across from it, in a small chamber, visitors might pause and contemplate.
This space provides for gatherings, quiet reflection, and memorial services.
Along the western
edge of the site, a deep fissure exposes the slurry wall from plaza level to bedrock and provides access
via a stairway. Descending alongside its battered surfaces, visitors will witness the massive expanse
of the original foundations. The entrance to the underground interpretive center is located at bedrock.
Here visitors could view many preserved artifacts from the twin towers: twisted steel beams, a crushed
fire truck, and personal effects. The underground interpretive center would contain exhibition areas
as well as lecture halls and a research library.
In contrast with the public mandate of the underground
interpretive center is the very private nature of the room for unidentified remains. It is situated at
bedrock at the north tower footprint. Here a large stone vessel forms a centerpiece for the unidentified
remains. A large opening in the ceiling connects this space to the sky above, and the sound of water
shelters the space from the city. Family members can gather here for moments of private contemplation.
It is a personal space for remembrance.
The memorial plaza is designed to be a mediating space;
it belongs both to the city and to the memorial. Located at street level to allow for its integration
into the fabric of the city, the plaza encourages the use of this space by New Yorkers on a daily basis.
The memorial grounds will not be isolated from the rest of the city; they will be a living part of it.
Winning World Trade Center Design- Reflecting Absence
Statement Illustrations & Models
Biography/Credits
Michael Arad and Peter Walker
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