From the Director

Location: Blogs Center for Civil and Human Rights (Atlanta)- Exec Director's Blog
Posted by: Doug Shipman Thursday, March 05, 2009
The Freelon / HOK team presented their design concept. Here are two pictures illustrating the concept. The CCHR team looks forward to comments posted about this concept under this post. Please also see the other 4 finalists' concepts in other blog entries and provide comments on each respective design.

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Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By Shital Patel on Thursday, March 05, 2009
My favorite out of the 5 - Seems "warm" and inviting.

By T. Scott on
Thursday, March 05, 2009

Excellent Presentation skills! Straight to the concept. A very strong concept and well developed for the given time. I like the either of equal entry for all and spaces created by the sloped roof. To often we go places and handicapped persons are separated because of their entry point. Definitely would like to explore the idea of a roof deck for viewing. The public domain is always on the lower level and there is a need to allow the public a vantage point a little higher. People always enjoy people watching and this would create that opportunity. It would be nice to do some further exploration of the central courtyard area as it seemed a bit harsh. The seating arrangements provided for unique conversational compositions however, a different approach of clustering could be considered.

By Gregg Rice on
Thursday, March 05, 2009

This is a very smart-looking design. The two interlocking building structures have great symbolic as well as aesthetic impact, and the green roof is a big plus. There appears to be a good mix of interior and exterior space too. The large upper windows hanging over the entrance would really attract visitors and be able to show off peaks at exhibits to lure one in. I like this design the best of the 5, based on limited information I can gather from the 2 renderings of each proposal.

By Lain on
Thursday, March 05, 2009

This one is my favorite too. The design is striking, the green roof is great, and it meets Ivan Allen Blvd decently. I like how it's open and closed at the same time. Is that a jumbo tron or a glassed-in atrium at the bottom? Whatever it is, it'll be great coming out of the tunnel on Spring Street. I tend to regard these things from a pedestrian's point of view, and I'd say that in those terms this one is the least worst. It's too bad that it more or less ignores Centennial Olympic Park Drive. And I'd skip the little L patch of grass on the NE (bottom left) corner. There's plenty of it around back. I guess the idea is that folks can walk in the middle area between the CCHR, the WOC, and the Aquarium, but I think that would be more detrimental to the area than helpful. All that said, I do really like it. I'm sorry I couldn't make these presentations, Doug. This is really exciting. Congratulations on getting to make another great and tough choice!

By DDE on
Thursday, March 05, 2009

The strongest of the 5 based on these limited renderings. The "linked arms" metaphor is effective, and most importantly it actually makes some attempt to engage the adjacent street. The prominent pedestrian entrance on Ivan Allen Blvd is encouraging -- though the treatment of Techwood/COP Dr, and the street corner itself, could certainly be improved. The other designs all seem rather focused on the interior of the site -- similar to the Aquarium and World of Coke, which both turn their back on the street and are urban design failures. Let's not make that mistake again. The struggle for civil rights was fought in the streets, not in sterile landscaped plazas.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By Jessica Kirkwood on Thursday, March 05, 2009
This was my favorite. The form seemed best suited to the function. It also seemed really connected to the spirit of the city.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By Alex on Thursday, March 05, 2009
Definitely my favorite. I like the green element as well as the overall look of the building. I agree that it looks like an inviting place while some of the others look more sterile. You have several good options but I think this one's the winner. Good luck Doug!

By Scott on
Friday, March 06, 2009

One of the first things said in the presentation was that the center shouldn't be a monument. However, the form of the building suggests that it is a monument. It has symbolism, yes. It has a strong concept, but the space inside the building has nothing to do with the function of the center. The form alone tells the story on the outside and the program was arranged to fit as best as possible; a detail which defines it as an occupiable, symbolic statue. It is, in fact, a monument. The layout simply consists of hallways that link museum exhibitions, but this center is not supposed to be a museum. I also believe the focus of the design is misplaced. In the presentation, the civil rights side of the project was over-elaborated on. There was no mention of Human Rights in which to ground the discussion of Civil Rights. In fact, the Civil Rights charter and the Human Rights charter even disagree about what a "right" is. This design celebrates the MLK papers by giving them the best seat in the building. What this does is use Martin Luther King as propaganda to celebrate his accomplishments and define this as his building. Yes, I am aware that the papers are supposed to be the showcase exhibit, but to single him out so boldly on the corner with the best views and the most damaging UV rays from the sun is just wrong. The papers shouldn't even be under sunlight. I think this was the best example of what the Center shouldn't be. It is commercialized propaganda and a museum for Civil Rights and ignores the larger issue of human rights. It doesn't tell any story by its space, nor does it invoke emotion or active response regarding the issues it addresses. This design was presented very well, which is why it has garnered such positive response. I urge everyone to rethink their opinion and ponder if this design can really achieve the unity it claims to express.

By M. Stewart on
Friday, March 06, 2009

Freelon Group - This presentation was excellent. The concept is clear and easily read in the building form. There is a good mixture of spaces both internal and out that draw and attract visitors. The multiple entrances on several levels make good use of the sites large drop in terrain. Where as the other groups give us green roofs this project does so as well. But I can see the use slight change of design and use of this green roof for center visitors as an easy adaption. I also like that this roof and the building form was considered from not only the ground but up in the air, in Atlanta's prominent skyscrapers and tall buildings. In this respect it gives people working and visiting in nearby hotels and offices a chance to be intrigued by something they did not notice in their car or on foot. It also gives a pleasant form on which to peer down onto. The choice of terracotta as a building material is very near to our hearts here in Georgia. If the choice of the color could reflect the Georgia red clay then it would further ground this building into is location, Atlanta. As part of the material choice the glazing and skylight that is located along the entrance lobby will need to be shaded. Atlanta has mainly clear skies thoughout the year and the harsh summer sun will peer through and just bake visitors before they even experience the building and the inside. Solar shading should be achieved to still bring in light but cut down on the direct gain and glare. This project too suffers from the large and high facade on the Ivan Allen street. The tall and flat facade should be treated to break up its scale and make it more friendly to the pedestrian and the cars. This is already being started through the terracotta screening. More of the screen should be opened up with glazing at the cafe and such to give views into the project at the street level. Also, the building mass can step back to decrease the scale of what a person experiences at the street. This will make the wall seem less tall. It can also allow for more northern light to enter in through skylights in the strip opening left over.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By MAA on Friday, March 06, 2009
This is the best one of the 5 in my opinion...<br>Great design, concept, and presentation!!!<br>This is a no-brainer, this one is the winner!!

By TJB860 on
Friday, March 06, 2009

I really enoy the physical design of this building, but I do have to agree about the actual layout of the exhibition. I think having a central "hub and spoke" model with a more philosophical central presentation of what is a "right" and then evolving off of that at the visitor's choice would be an interesting way to utilize this great design and still accomplish the goal of the center. One other poster said it... these battles were fought in the streets. So, why not make this a progression of streets that you walk to see the journey various groups have struggled with. The other nice element of this design is that it has the great possibility of expansion without ruining the central architectural message. Having that possibility of growth and evolution is very important to a design since that keeps a showcase fresh, and it allows for attention to be paid as other human rights issues arise in our history.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By Akennas on Friday, March 06, 2009
I will have to agree to disagree with many of the posters - I found this design forced and trite, and nothing about it said civil and human rights - it was more "Oh, here is a cool, trendy building! - oh, by the way, it houses theCCHR". I rated it no better than 4th out of 5.

By JConn on
Friday, March 06, 2009

The concept is extremely compelling. I appreciate the symbolism and admire the architecture, although the scale of the building might make it hard to recognize the beauty in person. It does appear to split the building into two separate entities, which creates a feeling of disconnect. The expansive blocks make the design feel more like an institution than a center. Nonetheless, the green roof and angled interlinking make this proposal very promising.

By FBataille on
Friday, March 06, 2009

This concept is in my opinion the most engaging of the 5. It's intriguing design makes me want to visit the site. Because it is so open and seemlessly blends landscape & architectural design elements it provides the perfect back drop for the peace and justice concept that a civil & human rights building shoud portray. I think that when people walk up to the building/campus they will have a sense of Atlanta, in addition to receiving an international breath of fresh air. Good job!!! I can't wait to visit this new center.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By Matthew Wamboldt on Friday, March 06, 2009
Certainly this is better than some of the other design candidates, by virtue of its hub-oriented space, but I'm not a fan of the blocky brown exterior, and the slit windows make it look like a prison.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By JM on Friday, March 06, 2009
A combination of this (Freelon) and the Polshek design would be perfect. The building should be symbolic and standout, yet be inclusive and inviting for visitors.

By MK on
Friday, March 06, 2009

Innovation, sustainability, and symbolism are achieved in this design. They did so in a way that is a tribute to everything for which the Center stands. It is responsible to the environment and respectful of its neighbors. The entire concept made me proud to live in a city that allows me to be a part of something so great. There was a true sense of unity. Each aspect of this design was thoroughly thought out, and can be interpreted with little explanation. This is by far the best design on all levels.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By D Silvera Elmore on Friday, March 06, 2009
Definitely my favorite of the 5. I think the sleek interlocking design beautifully illustrates the coming together of different groups/factions to celebrate the partnership of civil and human rights. I also love the green element, harmonizes well with Centennial Park. Urban glam and Southern Charm- just like Atlanta. As Tina Fey would say, I'd like to go to there. Very inviting presence overall.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By RL on Friday, March 06, 2009
After day1, I too liked bits and pieces of each proposal and felt that the Polshek proposal had the best massing/monumental elements and positioning on the site. The materiality was not there though, and needed some more development but perhaps not to the extent of Predock or Freelon , as this would probably hurt the transparency of the scheme.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By BA on Saturday, March 07, 2009
This design is very interesting. My favorite from all of the designs.

By Linda Carnes on
Saturday, March 07, 2009

I was not present for this presentation, however from the look here, it appears to be the best suited of ther 5 for the project's intent. I frankly do not feel that any of these 5 is quite the right one. That is, merging the soaring historic legacy of the Civil Rights Movement with a contemporary promise for human rights globally. I am also looking for a design that distinguishes the 3-building site in downtown Atlanta. Both the Aquarium and the Coca-Cola buildings lack a compelling architectural statement. The design and interior of this building requires must lend both inspiration and legacy to the City and the site. Thanks, again, Doug, for this opportunity to comment.

By Linda Carnes on
Saturday, March 07, 2009

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By Michael on Sunday, March 08, 2009
Strong design concept and presented very well. This design seems to meet the program needs and the goal of the new Center. The approach to the problem seems well thought out. The design brings a sense of prescence to the highly visible corner lot within the urban fabric. So much potential with this design and the proposed sustainable design elements. I have to say this is my favorite of the 5.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By Julian Pena on Monday, March 09, 2009
I agree with many of the above listed comments. Excellent design encompassing strong architectual concepts that add to the beauty of the city while also keeping the "green" element in mind. My favorite design of all the choices.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By Noelle on Monday, March 09, 2009
Upon looking over all finalists' designs, I must say I am just delighted with the ideas beyond the HOK design! My favorite design by far.

By LA on
Monday, March 09, 2009

I think this was the most appropriate and suitable design for the site and project. The concept was clear and rich in terms of it's symbolic and architectural expression and possibility. I think there are some aspects that can be strengthened, but of the 5, it presents the most promising and fitting diagram. I think the choice of materials was nice, and the contrast between the heavy introverted enclosure of the exhibits is effectively contrasted by the highlighting of specific program pieces by the large picture windows. I think there are some opportunities to open up the skin more without compromising the contrast which I think needs to strike a fine balance. I also very much appreciate the treatment of the public space (courtyard) and the way it is both of this project, yet very well integrated into the overall site both from the street and the park in the center. I think the courtyard has much more potential to speak explicitly to the spirit of the project and can be activated by some sort of evolving exhibit to engage visitors to the project in a unique way. I look forward to seeing this project continue to develop and hopefully become a reality.

By WilliamA on
Monday, March 09, 2009

The strength of the Freelon/HOK design lies in its ability to achieve a level of complexity that the other schemes seem to lack. The renderings illustrate that the museum provides opportunities for both personal (inward) and public (outward) reflection. Also, the simple and symbolic interlocking forms and green space suggest a strong connection to the surrounding communities. Comparitively, the other schemes appear to be less engaging because of their materiality and/or forms.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By Russell on Tuesday, March 10, 2009
I really like the scale of this building and its relationship to the site. The cantilevered massing is very interesting and creates some very dynamic exterior spaces. The courtyard space created by the folds of the building is excellent in that it is both removed from the urban surrounding yet open and inviting. Very nice project.

By Tim N on
Tuesday, March 10, 2009

I'm not surprised that a lot of the comments say they like this concept. Unfortunately, the concept is simplistic and "fast-food" ready. Easily turned into a logo, brand, and just as easily dismissed. For a presentation to emphasize the importance of concept, they produced a completely disappointing, thin, and unintelligent metaphor for a building that needs deeper reading. It is a handsome building, but the team correctly said that the concept is more important than the building and they failed that mission.

By Joe M on
Tuesday, March 10, 2009

It's apparent by this submission that Freelon/HOK seriously and thoughtfully engaged in not only creating a design concept but also rigorously implemented the parameters of program, site constraints, and budget into their proposal. Many of the other submissions give a provocative image, and leave it at that. Furthermore, I do not think this submission is "fast food" ready, unlike some of the other "groundscapes" which seem to imply that the cultural significance of this project can be understood through a field and meadow / "Highline-esque" experience. If you want brand and style, by all means go for the proposals that simply regurgitate some of their previous projects into something new. Or, you can consider the Freelon/HOK proposal, which actually delved deeply into the realization of a concept through site and cultural specific relationships.

By Ronnie Wilson on
Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Cheeze-E. Okay, the concept? Straight out of first year design studio. I appreciate their enthusiasm for the project but this is just too simplistic. Linking arms? They paid no attention to Auburn Avenue, an historical epicenter for what this museum represents. And this design simply "regurgitates" what everyone expects out of a museum. Yes, it is flashy and I guess, interesting. However, this museum could be placed anywhere and is not very contextual. Probably the weakest of what I saw.

By Ronnie Wilson on
Wednesday, March 11, 2009

By Jimmy S. on
Wednesday, March 11, 2009

I agree with the previous, it holds no context to the site. As the Center for Civil Human Rights, the building must convey a strong stature, one that can be seen and understood from any plane, not just an image from Google Earth. From the conceptual images that I have seen, as present during the presentation, and I will say I appreciated the concept, but why does it end there? The concept becomes oblivious at a worm's eye view, with no visible imagery of 'interlocking arms'. And so what? A building that resembles interlocking arms, only visible from space... is that all that human rights can be represented by? By limiting the center as a simple concept and design, does one not limit the potential for human rights, one that is ever-adapting, ever-maturing, ever-prospering?

By Jimmy S. on
Wednesday, March 11, 2009

By C. Copperpot on
Wednesday, March 11, 2009

This is a very thoughtful, yet accessible design. The concept and narrative contain elements of poetry and sustainability that do not look down upon its visitors. It welcomes and embraces them in a modern diagram and aesthetic that is can be appreciated from the spaces created to the finest details as shown in this thorough presentation. It is quite apparent that the Freelon/HOK partnership has taken the Center's goals with sincerity and infused their design expertise into a solution that best represents the Civil Rights Movement, the building's users, and urban context of downtown Atlanta.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By D Farmer on Wednesday, March 11, 2009
This one is FABULOUS. I like everything about it. I wish there were a public ampitheatre included and then it would be PERFECT!!!!!!<br>LOVE THIS ONE BEST OF ALL

By D.E.B. on
Wednesday, March 11, 2009

I must apologize in advance as I am sure that this comment will seem extremely abrasive to many fans of this design proposal—needless to say I am not a proponent. On a side note, I was only able to attend the second day of the design presentations, so I can only scrutinize Freelon’s and DS+R’s proposal; the other images posted on the web are the equivalent of pornography and they explain nothing about the actual design. I realize that designing a building of this magnitude is not an easy task—there is an abundance of public scrutiny, people with axes to grind, and secret political agendas at play—and I must commend both Freelon and DS+R on producing a final product. However, I feel that there are serious issues present in the Freelon proposal and I feel that if such a structure were allowed to be built a serious injustice would be committed. Firstly, Freelon’s use of the metaphor, the embracing/interlocking arms, translated into massing is extremely sappy and patronizing to many people—personally, it offends me. I feel that the designer’s use of such a charged image was done in order to manipulate the general public into believing that they created a powerful symbol for Civil and Human Rights. Ultimately though, all that was created was a neutral and impotent building. Additionally, the translation of the metaphor directly into a built form is banal and elementary. The image of the embracing arms is only visible from a bird’s-eye-view and does not appear to occur anywhere else in the program itself. This was an extremely poor use of a metaphor the likes of which I would equate to a roadside attraction such as the ‘shoe house.’ Furthermore, with regards to public speaking, getting the audience to take arms and then sit down was very anticlimactic and a poor use of public speaking strategies. Secondly, the program itself appears to be very hermetic and disjointed and I do not believe that proper mood was achieved for such a structure. Ultimately, the building feels very ‘museum like’ which is the wrong mood to convey regarding such issues as Civil and Human Rights—these are issues relegated to the yellow pages of history. The introverted courtyard is awkward and appears to have been addressed towards the end of the eleventh hour. Thirdly, the green roof is another area of contention that I have with the design not only because of its inaccessibility, but also because of its double meaning. Historically, any culture living below the poverty line has been subjugated to the worst parts of town (e.g. near the railroad, dumps, power plants, etc.) Environmental justice plays a major role in not only the civil rights movement (which is still occurring) but also in human rights. Freelon’s design does not address environmental justice and the images presented seem to suggest that this green roof is a monoculture composed of only grass. The double meaning of which is that Freelon is proposing that a biological wasteland be placed on top of the CCHR. Furthermore, the green roof would require copious amounts of fertilizer and water to be pumped up to it during the sweltering heat of Georgia’s summer. As it stands our water situation in Georgia is precarious. What should have been proposed was the use of Georgia native plants which are drought resistant and do not require fertilizer instead of grass. Finally, the design proposal by Freelon seems to imply that the Civil Rights movement is over and that the lessons have been concretized into a static form—this is simply not true. This is evident in Freelon’s inability to thoughtfully address The Sweet Auburn district in the design proposal, and underscored by buildings blatant prostitution towards Ivan Allen Jr. Boulevard named after a segregationist. Do your research!!! Overall, I find that Freelon’s proposal serves as a testament to the designer’s incompetence to address key issues present in the site, the program, and the social issues of the CCHR.

By L.W.W. on
Friday, March 13, 2009

Without a doubt, my favorite of all. I'm not sure where DEB (above) was coming from, but I don't think the goal was to create a new religion or anything. "Environmental justice" and "double meanings"?? Perhaps DEB is reading too much into the plan. I personally think the ideas expressed in the approach and design are thoughtful and definitely address the bigger issues. It will fit in beautifully downtown and I am looking forward to having something else important to be proud of in Atlanta.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By I Want a Better Atlanta on Friday, March 13, 2009
Typical Atlanta....put it right next to the building that looks like a boat and the soft drink mecca.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By Nilo on Friday, March 13, 2009
Wonderful idea. I love the intersecting buildings.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By Janet Mindes on Wednesday, March 18, 2009
I don't much like how this design fits with the surrounding area. It does seem warm, but will the enclosed courtyard work in all weather and light, i.e., won't that area be in a lot of shadow? I don't care that much for the building form, although it is better than some of the others. And I don't get a sense that the park area is integral with the buildings. It's just an adjacent park.

By atlanta student on
Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Apparently those who were at this presentation were highly impressed, but I found this to be a very unstimulating. The boxy design and the slit windows evoke the concrete architecture from the dismal days of architecture. What I'm ultimately saying is that I agree with this comment: I will have to agree to disagree with many of the posters - I found this design forced and trite, and nothing about it said civil and human rights - it was more "Oh, here is a cool, trendy building! - oh, by the way, it houses theCCHR". I rated it no better than 4th out of 5.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By Lisa D. on Monday, March 23, 2009
This is definitely my favorite out of all 5 designs. It is warm and inviting and the geen roof is great. If a deck is added to the roof that can be an additional revenue stream for the complex if rented out.<br><br>The interlocking buildings are very symbolic. The design also blends better with the other buildings in the area. Overall I think this should be the winning design.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By Kristin on Thursday, March 26, 2009
Congratulations!!!!! The best design won!

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By Hope on Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Congrats! You deserved to win. I enjoyed the presentation, straight to the point. God job!

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By NO on Tuesday, May 26, 2009
The other four were better. I am an architect.

Re: Freelon / HOK Design	By NO on Tuesday, May 26, 2009
The other four were better. I am an architect.

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Freelon / HOK Design