The new project, spearheaded by Howard+Revis working in close collaboration with local firm Self +Tucker Architects, marks the first renovation since the museum’s opening nearly 20 years ago.
Howard+Revis has proposed design solutions to two challenges: to create a more cohesive campus for the museum, which currently occupies two separate buildings; and to redesign the introductory experience to the museum.
The most profound change to the building interior would be felt in the lobby. Currently a cramped and confusingly laid-out space, the lobby would be opened up considerably and made more welcoming through a number of simple moves.
The large bronze ‘Movement to Overcome’ sculpture would be moved out-of-doors to a more roomy space. The walls on the second floor would also be removed providing an open mezzanine connected by a sculptural stair. This stair connects the ‘parting word’ exhibits on the upper floor with the lobby, completing the circulation loop and returning visitors to a familiar starting place. The entrance to the orientation film, marked by a projected image of the Selma marchers, would be given prominence. This film serves as the first visitor experience and leads to the introductory exhibits. Lastly, the retail store/cafe would be redesigned, with café-style seating spilling out into the open space to create a lively plaza-like atmosphere.
The renovation scheme includes new site signage, outdoor video ‘listening posts’, which bring the events of 1968 to life through firsthand witness testimony, a two-storey lobby with mezzanine that opens up the entry to the museum, a new introductory film shown in a much expanded auditorium, and new exhibits on the Jim Crow south and the aftermath to the King assassination.
NCRM is located at Memphis’ Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in 1968. In November 2008, the museum invited the public to presentations by the top four design teams being considered to conduct the renovation. Following these presentations and interviews, the museum’s steering committee selected Howard + Revis Design Services of Washington D.C.
