National Veterans Memorial and Museum
Columbus, Ohio
The National Veterans Memorial and Museum—officially designated by the federal government as a national museum in 2018—honors veterans past and present who have answered the call of duty throughout American history.
RAA’s remit was to create a place that was neither a war memorial nor a military museum. Instead, it was to be a place of personal narratives: relaying diverse experiences and contributions, from the Revolutionary War to the present, in wartime and in peace.
In the main exhibition, Veterans Among Us, fourteen thematic alcoves illuminate key themes and moments in the experience of veterans. A timeline serves as the chronological backbone of the museum journey with the personal stories of those who have served over time highlighted through artifacts and images. The Legacy of Service exhibit provides inspirational vignettes about how veterans use skills and values learned in military service to help their communities.
The dynamic, participatory experience presents this history through a rich assortment of photos, letters, and personal effects and multimedia presentations. Together, these elements link the importance of individuals in shaping our national history.
Located on the Scioto Peninsula, the museum is a key part of the revival of downtown Columbus, Ohio. With an aim to connect veterans and civilians in the 21st century, the museum is particularly focused on having young people understand veterans’ firsthand experiences of events that may feel distant from their lives.
Size 20,000 square feet
Year 2018
Architect Allied Works Architecture
Project Details
Landscape ArchitectureOlin
Exhibit Fabricator1220 Exhibits
Lighting DesignTillotson Design Associates
Audio Visual / AcousticalJaffe Holden Acoustics
Media DesignRAAM
Content ConsultantsOhio History Connection Archivists and Curators; Mark Lawrence, Asst. Professor, University of Texas
AwardsGOOD DESIGN® Award: Winner, EnvironmentsGraphis Design Annual: Silver
“Beautiful and symbolic use of color and light representing military insignia.”
—Kathleen P.
“An evening with the Thunderbirds.”
@lipscer
“One of a kind, and the only place in America where all branches of the military are honored for the dedication and sacrifice.”
@calvinjames_images
“An impressive homage to veterans.”
@dasharpe
“Windows on the top floor of the National Veterans Museum. They are based on the patterns of ribbons on service pins.”
@gretcheninohio
“The entire place is an emotional experience and such an important place where we can keep educating and telling the stories of our selfless soldiers.”
—Dog D.
“An incredibly well-done and touching museum focusing directly on the men and women who have served in the armed forces.”
—Grant W.
“What a great walk through someone else’s boots — a truly wonderful look into the lives of veterans across the ages.”
—Ohio V.
“The building’s architecture is worth a visit alone but the thought and caring devoted to veterans is above and beyond.”
—Paul P.
“A fantastic contribution to all of our Veterans who have ever served.”
—Timothy P.
“A powerful tribute to America’s veterans … a moving and enriching experience.”
—Yousuf K.