Aaron Neubert Architects and studioSTIGSGAARD have collaborated to create an emotionally charged and deeply meaningful memorial design for the Route 91 Harvest Festival in Las Vegas. This collaborative effort aims to honor the victims, survivors, first responders, and the affected community following the tragic mass shooting that took place in 2017. Inspired by the community’s love for country music and the awe-inspiring landscapes of Las Vegas, the memorial design seeks to encapsulate the diverse range of emotions associated with the event and its aftermath. By incorporating natural elements and architectural finesse, the design concept titled “A Ribbon in the Sand” emerges as a powerful symbol of unity, fostering solace, connection, and hope.
Architectural Vision and Design Concept
The architects’ vision for the Route 91 Harvest Festival Memorial is a testament to their innovative and impactful approach. Drawing inspiration from the scenic beauty of Las Vegas, the memorial design seamlessly integrates the Colorado River, the graceful contours of a guitar, the resilient form of a cactus, and the ancient fossil beds of Tule Springs. The resulting enclosure, rising from the landscape, serves as both a physical and symbolic boundary, separating the sacred grounds of remembrance from the urban surroundings.
The transparency of the enclosure allows for a visual connection to the surrounding landscape, creating a sense of openness and harmony. This design element symbolizes unity, honoring the diverse experiences and healing processes of individuals impacted by the tragedy. It aims to provide privacy and protection while inviting visitors to find solace within its walls.
The memorial design celebrates the power of music, the strength of community, and the enduring memory of the victims. It offers spaces that embody moments of joy, reflection, contemplation, and sorrow, accommodating visitors at various stages of their healing journey. The design concept captures three significant moments of the healing process within a continuous ribbon of time, achieved through a harmonious blend of stillness and movement, natural elements and architectural form, light and shadow, and the interplay of sound and silence.
Conclusion
“A Ribbon in the Sand” memorial stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of unity. This collaborative effort between Aaron Neubert Architects and studioSTIGSGAARD beautifully intertwines architectural finesse with the emotional weight of the tragic event. The memorial design fosters a profound connection between visitors and the memorial site, offering solace, reflection, and hope. It serves as a lasting tribute to the lives lost, the courage of survivors, and the unwavering support of the community. “A Ribbon in the Sand” encapsulates the transformative journey of healing and emphasizes the importance of unity in the face of adversity.
Technical sheet
Project Name: A Ribbon in the Sand
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada USA
Client: Clark County
Architect: Aaron Neubert Architects + studioSTIGSGAARD
Landscape Designer: Agency Artifact
Exhibit Design: Gallagher & Assoc.
Lighting Design: L’Observatoire International
Structural Engineers: NOUS
Civil Engineers: Labib Funk + Associates
MEP Engineers: ALFA Tech
Acoustics Consulting: Chu & Dohn Assoc.
