Weaving Place and Object: A New Martin Luther King Memorial Library

Abstract

The new Washington D.C. Convention Center has proven to be a catalyst for revitalization and improvement in Downtown D.C. The existing older Convention Center site is impeding further development along the New York Avenue corridor. This thesis proposes the construction of a dynamic mixed-use community providing varied retail options and increased housing opportunities at all income levels. A prominent new downtown landmark will also be created-a new Martin Luther King Memorial Library to replace the existing library, an outdated structure located two blocks south of the site.

This thesis also explores the symbiotic relationship between object buildings and spaces-the relationship between building and place. The mixing of uses is investigated at multiple scales, working from neighborhood scale to the building scale. The idea of procession between objects and spaces is also explored- linking the object building-the new convention center to the object space, the National Mall, via a dynamic and intuitive path. The new MLK Library will educate and entertain District residents and visitors at all hours-creating a place of public interaction and exhibition-in addition, the increased concentration of housing will aid in the realization of the Downtown we envision.