December 2001

This proposal responds to the need for a place of reflection, witness, and commemoration of the World Trade Center site. It provides a platform to address the experience of visiting the site -- while not competing with it. It is envisioned that several of these platforms could be constructed around the site, and even disassembled and rebuilt as the site perimeter changes. It is a simple construction, with direct us of materials used to convey gravity, stability, and dignity, while at the same time being connected to the site. It attempts a compromise at a public space and a private viewing experience. And it allows the visitor to mark his or her visit to the site as well, with a large platform to leave flowers or other commemoratives, and the back wall has a large expanse for pinning up notes and pictures. The construction consists of a ramp and lower platform, a set of bleacher/steps, and then the viewing platform. The viewing platform has a bench against its back wall.

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Aaron McDonald Architect, 1 Union Square 903, New York, New York 10011