Atheneum

Richard Meier – Atheneum, New Harmony, Indiana USA, 1975-1979

The Atheneum is a Richard Meier-designed building located near the banks of the Wabash River on the edge of New Harmony, the starting point for the historic town tour, and intended to serve as a center for visitor orientation and community cultural events. Its architecture is intended as an architectural walk and historical journey through one of America's most significant utopian communities.
Visitors arriving by boat find themselves on a path that leads to the building. A floor-to-ceiling space marks the point of entry. Once inside, the visitor is directed through the entrance box to the top-lit internal circulation ramp. Upon reaching the exhibition space on the third level, the visitor can retrace the ramp and see glimpses of the city and landscape through staggered internal windows that direct the view. On the highest roof terrace, with an exceptional panoramic view, the visitor is confronted with the city. Visitors descend via a second ramp that leads them out of the building and toward New Harmony itself.