Winning awards before it opened, this solemn yet powerful visitor center reverently encourages focus on the memorial cemetery it serves, deepening the tribute to those who served in World War II. With great dignity, the center draws visitors beyond the beach views and the cemetery's monumental axis to consider the landscape, sky and ocean. Its compact, deferent design offers cemetery views to reinforce its connection. Upon leaving, visitors are returned to that place of recognition and honor.
Stone cladding and simple forms reinforce the center's connection to burial grounds, while also reflecting local architecture. Rough-cut stone and aged wood contrast with the clean lines of glass and polished stone.
Location
Normandy, France
Size
30,000 gsf
Cost
$27 million