The Pritzker Military Archives Center, designed by renowned architecture firm Jahn, is a testament to preserving military history while embodying a modern architectural vision. Located in Somers, Wisconsin, this innovative building is both a functional archive and a landmark that honors the memory of those who have served in the U.S. military. With a sleek design, advanced sustainability features, and commitment to purpose, the center showcases how architecture can blend functionality with a deep sense of meaning.
Placing flexibility and innovation at the fore, the 15,000 sf facility includes exhibition space and below-grade archival storage. It supports the organization’s mission to increase public understanding of military history, highlight citizen soldiers’ contribution to bettering civilian life, and build upon the relationship between the armed forces and the people they serve and protect. The Pritzker Military Archives Center features clean lines, transparent facades, and dynamic use of materials (steel). The building is designed as a state-of-the-art archival facility and a public institution where military history is honored and studied.
The shape of a World War II-era landing craft inspires the design. The building’s exposed steel frame structure is painted a bright red – the color of courage, and clad in high-performance glass. Inside, a partial-height glass partition reveals the private workspaces of curators and archivists to the public, offering a unique glimpse into the intricate process of preserving history.
The building employs a 36-foot structural good where 390-foot trusses act as bearing walls to support the roof and provide lateral stability. The cantilevered roof frames an outdoor exhibit space, presenting an open and inviting image to visitors and creating a striking presence in the landscape. The elevated roof and expansive interior maximize functional efficiency and visual impact, providing optimal working conditions for staff and an inspiring environment for visitors.
One of the standout elements of the Pritzker Military Archives Center is its focus on sustainability. Jan incorporated a range of energy-efficient technologies into the building’s design, reducing its environmental footprint while ensuring long-term operation efficiency. The building’s form and material selection are optimized to minimize energy consumption, with high-performance glass, natural ventilation strategies, and solar shading systems that reduce the need for artificial lighting and cooling.
In keeping with its archival function, the center also features advanced climate control systems that maintain the temperature and humidity necessary to preserve sensitive documents and artifacts. This is a vital feature of the building, as it protects invaluable military records and memorabilia from the ravages of time while maintaining a sustainable approach to building operations.
The design also includes green spaces and landscape areas around the building, providing a serene atmosphere for visitors. These outdoor spaces are thoughtfully integrated into the overall architecture, creating a sense of balance between the natural environment and the modern built form.
Through its thoughtful design, commitment to sustainability, and dedication to preserving history, the center embodies the principles of both architecture and memory, ensuring that the past continues to inform and inspire future generations.
