National Museum of African American History and Culture (Adjaye design)

The National Museum of African American History and Culture, designed by a coalition led by architect David Adjaye with partners including Phil Freelon, opened on the National Mall in 2016. Its distinctive three-tiered bronze-colored corona and patterned metal lattice were inspired by traditional West African (Yoruba) forms and by historic cast-iron architectural precedents, producing a unique contemporary commemorative form. The museum's massing, materiality, and public plaza were integral to its role as a national memorial and new Smithsonian museum.