![National Museum of the U.S. Navy](https://perkinswill.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/MCODCO_001_N16-hero-mobile.jpg)
National Museum of the U.S. Navy – Artistic Ideas
This artistic concept for the National Museum of the U.S. Navy symbolizes the service’s resilient and flexible fiber—shaped and strengthened over centuries of maritime power. The proposed ideas were inspired by a history and culture forged by the sea and express the U.S. Navy’s core values and attributes—strength, commitment, integrity, courage, honor, and initiative. The building’s sail-like shapes and landscape conjure a fleet of vessels that skim the ocean’s surface, establishing a clear connection to sea, land, and air.
![In recognition of the Navy core value of commitment, the arrival experience marks the moment a visitor leaves the civilian landscape to join the service's team-oriented world and explore a history of journeys “from the depths to the stars.”](https://perkinswill.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/ENTRY_highres-e1697485987871.jpg)
The building and landscape were conceived as a living memorial, connecting visitors to U.S. Navy heritage through artifacts, stories, and immersive experiences. A ceremonial courtyard welcomes visitors and provides space for gatherings that celebrate the U.S. Navy’s culture and achievements.
![Scattered with macro artifacts and balanced gracefully alongside a reflecting pool, this gathering area is a tribute to active and veteran Navy, family members, and community.](https://perkinswill.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HONOR_ROOF_highres-e1697486050546.jpg)
![The museum’s atrium recalls the engineering ingenuity of the hull of a ship.](https://perkinswill.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/ATRIUM_highres-e1697486099502.jpg)
The atrium is designed to evoke admiration and a sense of stability. Entering an open space reminiscent of naval architecture, the visitor encounters the promise of a remarkable experience. Intriguing displays, dynamic exhibits, and contemplative spaces are held in balance, reflecting the integrity, resolve, and engineering ingenuity of the U.S. Navy.
![](https://perkinswill.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/SSEAS-Section_highres-e1697486142978-1410x1212.jpg)
![](https://perkinswill.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/SSEAS-00_highres-e1697486205921-795x447.jpg)
![](https://perkinswill.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/ARTIFACT_SUBMARINE_highres-e1697486232556.jpg)
Macro artifacts allow direct entry points into the story of the Navy. Juxtaposition of old and new technologies highlights the scale of human innovation and advancement.
![](https://perkinswill.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/ARTIFACT_PLANE_highres-e1697486278884-1410x793.jpg)
![](https://perkinswill.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/EXTRA_BACK-BUILDING_highres-795x448.jpg)