Construction Group Projects
PUBLIC ASSEMBLY Projects:
- Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
- Centennial Olympic Park
- Woodruff Arts Center and
High Museum Expansion - Woodruff Park
- World of Coca-Cola
- Charlotte African American Museum
- Dallas Convention Center Hotel
Additional Projects
- Atlanta History Center
- Atlanta Symphony Hall
- BMW Zentrum Visitor's Center
- Carter Center
- Coca-Cola Olympic City
- Ebenezer Baptist Church
- Lakewood Amphitheater
- NextStage Performing Arts Center
- Woodruff Library
THE HARVEY B. GANTT CENTER FOR
AFRICAN AMERICAN ARTS & CULTURE MUSEUM
Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
Completed: June 2009
Budget: $18,800,000
Square Footage : 46,500 SF
Architect: Freelon Architect
The new Gantt Center takes design inspiration from the Myers Street School which was located in the heart of the old Brooklyn neighborhood. The biblical term "Jacob's Ladder" was used to identify the school and referred to its prominent exterior stair configuration. The stairs signified pride and the importance of education in the advancement of Blacks in America. This concept of hope, advancement and enlightenment through cultural awareness and education is expressed in the new Gantt Center design through its modern interpretation of Jacob's Ladder. Stairs and escalators carry visitors up to the main second floor lobby from both ends of the building while framing the central glass atrium. The striking visual effect is a direct allusion to the original Jacob's Ladder and perpetuates the ideals of enlightenment and advancement through education.
The building's skin utilizes patterns reminiscent of quilt designs form the Underground Railroad era and woven textile patterns from West Africa. These architectural references to African American history and culture underscore the building's theme while creating an innovative and inspiring facade.
