For over half a century, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History (The Wright) has been dedicated to exploring and celebrating the rich cultural legacy of African Americans.
Project Scope
- Culturally influenced site design
- Green Stormwater Infrastructure
- Interpretative storytelling Integrated in the design
- Sustainable materials
The museum holds the largest permanent collection of African American culture in the world. The Wright takes a holistic approach to addressing our climate crisis, using award-winning programs and facility improvements, to continuously challenge themselves and their stakeholders to reframe the role museums play in protecting the environment and addressing climate change. In alignment with these priorities, CIS is leading the design advisory for a new sustainable campus setting.
The Detroit area faces increasing environmental and socioeconomic challenges due to climate change and continued reliance on fossil fuels. The Wright is pioneering a green museum of the future by reimagining how its landscape, building, and exhibits can further the movement. In June of 2021, a rainstorm brought nearly 8 inches in 24 hours, overwhelming the design standards of Detroit’s combined sewer system. This resulted in a major flood at the museum, causing widespread damage not only to the building but to significant artifacts.
Anticipated Results
CIS is leading the overall site design that will integrate culturally rich stories and narratives as artistic elements and sculptures into site features. CIS sought out input from museum staff, community leaders, and the City of Detroit, listening to their concerns and desires and integrating their perspectives into the design processes. From that engagement, the design will enhance the overall landscape with new native and adaptive plantings and integrate universal design to accommodate ADA requirements. Improvements include enhancement of the lower courtyards for flexible use such as a venue for weddings, fundraising, and exhibit space, as well as new site lighting for increased safety. The layout will represent the Big Dipper – implying the “Drinking Gourd” song, a lore used by the enslaved for celestial navigation as a beacon to true north and freedom.
Additional seating will be placed throughout the site in various settings for relaxation, conversation, or gatherings. Spaces throughout the campus will be designed for reflection, contemplation, and commemoration specific to Detroit’s Black history, innovators, teachers, activists, and more. Visitors will learn about African American culture and history through interaction with many of the site features.
The final schematic plan will provide The Wright with graphic documents to help approach key funding sources to support a multimillion dollar construction project. CIS is assisting The Wright to identify and secure the funds to implement the plan.
Partners
The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History
ECT
Timeline
2024 – 2025