Aaron Neubert Architects and studioSTIGSGAARD, renowned design practices known for their innovative and impactful work, have joined forces to create a deeply meaningful memorial design for the Route 91 Harvest Festival. The memorial aims to honor the victims, survivors, first responders, and the affected community in the wake of the tragic mass shooting that occurred in Las Vegas in 2017.

The collaborative design process has been profoundly influenced by the love for those lost, the unwavering strength of their families, the complex emotions of survivors, the heroic acts of bravery, the individual paths of healing, and the remarkable support of the community. Every step of the way, the design team has striven to create a visual representation of unity that embraces the diverse experiences and healing processes of individuals, while respectfully honoring the lives tragically taken.

Inspired by the community's deep connection to country music and the breathtaking landscapes of Las Vegas, the memorial proposal aims to navigate and convey the wide range of emotions associated with the event and its aftermath. Drawing inspiration from natural elements, including the Colorado River that carves its way through the Mojave Desert, the graceful contours of a guitar, the resilient form of a cactus, and the ancient fossil beds of Tule Springs, the memorial enclosure emerges from the landscape as a powerful symbol of unity.

The enclosure serves as both a physical and symbolic boundary, separating the sacred grounds of remembrance from the bustling urban environment. While providing protection and privacy, its transparent nature allows for visual connections to the surrounding landscape, fostering a sense of openness and harmony.

Designed to celebrate the power of music, the impact of community and dialogue, and the enduring memory of the victims, the memorial creates spaces that encapsulate moments of joy, reflection, contemplation, and sorrow. It invites individuals, regardless of where they may be in their personal healing journey, to enter and find solace within its walls.

Through the seamless integration of stillness and movement, natural elements and architectural form, light and shadow, and the interplay of sound and silence, the design captures three significant moments of the healing journey within a continuous ribbon of time. This concept creates a poetic and immersive experience for visitors, fostering a deep sense of connection, solace, and hope. The memorial stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of unity.