For the WTC competition we created a memorial which was meant to become part of the fabric of Manhattan – part of the life of future generations, while at the same time giving the families of the victims a place to visit and to remember the loss of their loved ones.

The shrines are a reference to those found in many cultures. One finds them at the side of roads, in the middle of villages or on busy street corners and they give us a chance to remember and honor those we lost through a tragedy – a place to light a candle, to leave a bouquet of flowers or say a prayer.

It was our wish that when we are long gone, these shrines will inspire future generations to remember the tragic events of September 11, 2001 by taking the time to leave a rose or light a candle every year on that September morning.