Washington To Welcome Immersive Exhibition Space… Underneath Lincoln Memorial

While many travel to the Lincoln Memorial to catch a glimpse of the 19-foot-tall statue of the historic president, visitors could soon add another destination when at the site: an immersive exhibition space hidden beneath the structure’s halls.

The National Park Service recently announced it has awarded a contract to remodel the area beneath Lincoln’s sculpture chamber, with plans to turn the underbelly of the building into a 15,000 square feet multimedia gallery space.

Architectural firm Quinn Evans and Consigli Construction Co have been tasked to work on the famed monument, which, according to The Architect’s Newspaper, first opened its doors to the public all the way back in 1922.

It’s unsurprising both of the selected companies have an impressive portfolio, including having worked on projects in and around the National Mall, Architect of the Capitol, and even the Smithsonian Institution.

“The undercroft of the Lincoln Memorial, long hidden from public view, offers a fascinating setting to learn more about America’s 16th president and the memorial that honors him,” quipped Jeff Reinbold, Superintendent of National Mall and Memorial Parks.

Within its confines, guests will learn about the iconic architectural feature, how the memorial was first constructed all those years ago, and how its meaning as a symbol in the country has evolved over the decades.

As per the National Parks Service, the renovated gallery will feature floor-to-ceiling glass walls to provide a view of the undercroft, along with an immersive theater projection that will showcase images of historic events onto the concrete foundations.

In addition, the space will be transformed to allow visitors to learn more about the significance of the site, and the icons that have contributed to its storied history, such as Abraham Lincoln, Marian Anderson, and Dr Martin Luther King, Jr.

The memorial, including the steps and chamber where the statue of Lincoln sits, will remain open to the public during the construction period of the exhibition space. Temporary restrooms, bookstores, and a lift will be made available for visitors during the duration of the work.

[via The Architect’s Newspaper and Artnet News, images via National Park Service]