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“Architecture shapes the very structure of life as we know it, but design is also a vehicle for expressing less tangible aspects of human existence. Architects are responsible for designing the ways that we commemorate joint experiences of the past, and for creating tangible expressions of shared, collective memories. Throughout history, memorial structures have held a significant place in society, whether as a small shrine to honor a local hero or as a reminder of a larger piece of history such as the Hiroshima Memorial.
In such cases, monuments are designed to create a space for those who have been directly or indirectly impacted by these incidents. Architects must creatively compose a place where individuals can either come and share their grief with others or celebrate a climactic moment in time. By creating a space for reflection and healing, monuments mark significant moments in the past while also offering a path forward. This list focuses on North American memorials; while each one is distinct in its cause, impact and representation, the following 7 designs are unified in espousing proudly emotional impacts.”
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