NATIONAL CENTER FOR CIVIL AND HUMAN RIGHTS BY FREELON

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights (NCCHR) is a new cultural venue located in the heart of Downtown Atlanta. The design being presented and forwarded through the Special Administrative Permit (SAP) application process represents the evolution of the concept originally developed for the international design competition.

The architectural concept for the new NCCHR derives its inspiration from great spaces in great cities around the world that have forever been transformed in our memory by the Civil and Human Rights events that took place in them.

Each of them at their moment in history were transformed into Spaces for Action by citizens of the world committed to making for themselves, and all of us, a better world to live in.

The NCCHR will be a “living” Center where visitors experience content through interactive exhibits and immersive activities. The content will focus on the civil rights movement in the United States and human rights issues from the global perspective.

Therefore, the concept for the National Center for Civil and Human Rights is based on creating a space of action. Two powerful walls will be placed in Atlanta and between them the NCCHR will thrive as a place for progressive action and change.

The character of these walls not only conveys strength and a sense of permanence, they also represent the uplifting spirit of optimism and progress that is the NCCHR.

The surface of these walls is composed of many varied panels that symbolize the many individuals that make up great movements for social progress. The Center is also designed for integration of future phases.

The expansion areas include approximately 6,500 GSF for a future gallery addition on the east side of the building  which will be accessible from the 970 level. Another expansion phase is planned for a 5,000 to 7,000 GSF Auditorium located to the west side and will be accessed through the main lobby at the 990 level.

Location: Atlanta, USA

Architect: Freelon

Architect of Record: HOK

Year: 2013