The National September 11 Memorial

THE NATIONAL SEPTEMBER 11 MEMORIAL IN NEW YORK, UNITED STATES

The National September 11 Memorial, implemented in September 2011, is located in New York City and offers a serene and introspective setting for reflection and commemoration. It features two reflecting pools with water flowing over their edges and cascading into a smaller pool, producing a soothing and meditative sound. Initiators included the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation and architects Michael Arad and Peter Walker.

Aerial view of the 9/11 Memorial and Museum on Monday, May 21, 2018. Credit: 9/11 Memorial, Photo by Jin S. Lee

General scenes on the memorial in spring season in New York on Wednesday, March 27, 2016. Photo by Michael Hnatov, 9/11 Memorial and Museum

September 11, 2011

CONTEXT

The 9/11 Memorial occupies a section of the 16-acre World Trade Center complex, spanning across eight acres in lower Manhattan. Amidst the lively atmosphere of the bustling city, it stands as a solemn site of reflection and commemoration. The Memorial Plaza, adorned with over 400 trees, offers a serene and introspective setting, providing a distinct separation from the bustling surroundings of the metropolis.

INTERVENTION STRATEGIES

The soundscape strategy for the 9/11 memorial was to create an auditory atmosphere that aligns with the mission of paying tribute to the individuals who lost their lives. The primary focus of the soundscape is the sound of water, which represents rejuvenation and the passage of time. The memorial features two reflecting pools with cascading water, producing a meditative sound. Additionally, the plaza has over 400 swamp white oak trees, which originate from the regions of the 9/11 crash sites [1]. The trees serve to separate the memorial area from the clamor and commotion of the city, not only visually, but also by masking urban noises.

Present day

OBSERVATIONS

Michael Arad, the architect of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, has stated that the twin reflecting pools symbolize the idea of "absence made visible". The water that flows into the voids of the pools is a reminder of the loss of life that occurred during the attacks, and the pools themselves can never be filled. Despite being located in the bustling city, the sound of the cascading water creates an atmosphere of peace and reflection, offering visitors a tranquil space to contemplate and pay their respects to the victims of September 11 [1].

References

[1] About the Memorial. Retrieved 7th March 2023, from https://www.911memorial.org/visit/memorial/about-memorial

Entry submitted by: Xiaochao Chen