Gaines Group Blog

31. Martin Lurther King, Jr. Memorial#105architecturalinspiration

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”

The Martin Lurther King Jr. Memorial is located in Washington D.C., southwest of the National Mall. On the Northwest corner of the tidal basin bears the address of 1964 Independence Avenue, commemorating the year of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The monument includes a statue of Dr. King by sculpture Lei Yixin as well as quotes engraved in granite walls leading up to the statue, representing the life of Dr. King.

“out of the mountain of despair, a stone of home.”

The memorial’s design, by ROMA Design Group, was selected from a competition that included 900 candidates from 52 countries. The quotes come from Dr. King’s sermons and speeches showing his evolution over time. 

Standing in the memorial is a powerful experience. Looking out over the tidal basin, reading the quotes, looking up at his face – all bring great emotion. His vision for peace and unity in a time of turmoil and hatred shows that one man can make a difference. One man can be heard. One man can build a brighter future for all.

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.”

#105architecturalinspirations is a collection of architectural details, buildings, and spaces that inspire me. I am taking on the challenge of finding two projects to spotlight each week in 2015. Hopefully I will be able to keep up and this process of discovery will push me to create better design solutions for my clients as I research and learn more about those projects I enjoy most. I challenge you to add your comments below about this project and to post your own inspirations for all to enjoy.  Full List of previous #105architecturalinspiration posts 1 – 20. First 20 architectural inspirations here21. Michael Graves 22. St. Augustine 23. Guggenheim Museum24. Ocho House25.Bjarke Ingels 26. WG Clark 27. John F. Kennedy Space Center 28. Akademie Mont-Cenis 29. Sustainability Treehouse 30. Porch Rail