Welcoming All to the Michigan State Capitol
Heritage Hall
Heritage Hall
Heritage Hall is a pioneering two-level visitor center at the Michigan State Capitol. Expanding the Capitol's footprint by a quarter, this cutting-edge facility is tucked underground. Within its confines, an assembly hall is surrounded by versatile orientation areas, exhibits, and gathering spaces.
Heritage Hall builds on our previous efforts to restore and preserve the Capitol, which welcomes over 100,000 visitors each year. The new facility serves not just as a hub for exhibits and orientation but as a versatile meeting space used by the state legislature and various other groups. It represents a contemporary approach to visitor center design that emphasizes multifunctionality and accommodating diverse uses. Heritage Hall also demonstrates the principles of inclusive design, with spaces that are easily accessible to all.
You really listened to what we needed. You introduced a program that illustrated a modern-day visitor center that encompassed all the functions we were looking for.
Building Bridges
Heritage Hall serves as an orientation center that prepares visitors to tour the historic state capitol. It acts as a bridge, connecting the new building with the historic architecture and artifacts. The design focuses on inclusivity and creating connections, both physical and programmatic.
Underground Illumination
We employed daylight modeling to determine the placement of skylights and minimize glare and heat gain. We modeled and site-tested various glass patterns and opacities to ensure optimal lighting that maintains a comfortable environment and avoids damage to exhibits while allowing clear views of the Capitol dome.
Seamless Integration
To create a seamless connection between Heritage Hall and the historic civic architecture of the State Capitol, we designed the new facility using similar materials and proportions while respectfully integrating modern design elements. We upgraded accessibility throughout the Capitol complex by incorporating a new elevator.
Climate-Conscious Choices
Heritage Hall is heated and cooled by a new geothermal system that supports the whole Capitol complex. This system uses the relatively constant temperature of the ground beneath us to heat or cool the building’s air. The geothermal system does not burn any fossil fuels and is projected to reduce energy use at the Capitol by 30%.
