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A steel and glass structure in Kenosha, Wisconsin, inspired by World War II landing craft
In Kenosha, Wisconsin, a fusion of historical legacy and technological progress created the Pritzker Military Archives Center, designed by the Jahn architecture practice. The building, which houses a museum and its archives, was created to enrich the public’s understanding of military history by exploring its narratives through stories from the past, present, and future.
Located in the village of Somers, about thirty kilometers from Milwaukee, the facility was created to house and expand the collections of the Pritzker Military Museum & Library, and strengthen the bond between the armed forces and the community. The new building includes exhibition spaces, underground archives, and collections dedicated to military history.
The design of the Pritzker Military Archives Center draws its inspiration from World War II landing craft, with its exposed steel-frame structure painted bright red to symbolize courage. The entire building is wrapped in glass, giving the architecture a lightness, establishing an ongoing dialogue between the interior and exterior, and improving the quality of the work environments.
The structure is based on an 11 m structural grid system, with 120 m trusses that act as load-bearing walls, supporting the roof and providing lateral stability. The striking cantilevered roof creates an outdoor exhibition space that embraces the surrounding landscape and creates an inviting image for visitors. The ground level hosts the exhibition space and work areas. A large glass partition lets the public watch the curators and archivists at work, offering a glimpse of the process of preserving history. The archives are at basement level.
The landscape design, the work of O2 Design, centers on creating a strong connection between the building and the surrounding natural environment. This included preserving and making a focus of the nearby wetlands with the creation of new green spaces for walking, cycling, and picnicking. The project also includes ecological practices such as rainwater harvesting for irrigation, and a 50,561 kWh photovoltaic solar system, which generates electricity for the entire complex.
Reflecting the commitment to a more sustainable future through the design of high energy performance buildings, these high-tech solutions have reduced the environmental impact of the project.
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Architect: Jahn
Client: Archives & Armory of PMML
Main Contractor: Pepper-Riley Construction
Consultants
Landscape: O2Structure
MEP: Cosentini
Civil: Terra Engineering
Lighting: Reed Burkett Lighting Design
Acoustics: Threshold Acoustics
Energy: Cyclone Energy Group
Photography by Tom Rossiter, courtesy of Jahn
