A Memorial of Remembrance
On May 31, 2019, the Virginia Beach community was shaken by a tragic mass shooting that claimed the lives of 12 innocent people and injured four others. In the aftermath of the heartrending event, the city of Virginia Beach has resolved to establish a memorial that will pay tribute to the victims, while serving as a place for reflection, healing, and unity for the community.
To bring this memorial to life, the city shortlisted two finalists: Rhodeside Harwell with Larry Kirkland Studio and Dills Architects with SWA. Interface Multimedia assisted the Rhodeside Harwell / Kirkland team by creating architectural renderings and a short animation of their vision for the proposed memorial. The design includes Larry Kirkland's signature combination of water and glass to create a place of respect and remembrance.
Rhodeside Harwell, a leading landscape architecture and urban design firm, has proposed a design that emphasizes the connection between the natural environment and the community. The memorial will be situated within a serene and contemplative setting, incorporating elements of water, stone, and native plants to create a space that fosters healing and reflection.
Central to Rhodeside Harwell's design is a series of 12 individual glass panels, each representing one of the victims. These panels will be inscribed with the names of the victims and their stories, serving as a poignant reminder of the lives lost. The glass panels will be surrounded by a circular arrangement of native trees and vegetation, symbolizing life, growth, and the strength of the community.
In addition to the memorial elements, Rhodeside Harwell has proposed a series of pathways and seating areas that will encourage visitors to engage with the space and each other. These areas will serve as spaces for reflection, conversation, and support, fostering a sense of unity and resilience within the community.
