It’s been 15 years since one of the darkest moments in our history. The images of the Twin Towers collapsing has been engraved into the minds of people all across the globe, a tragedy that has once reminded us how hate can bring out the worst in people. However, what was once reminiscent of a war zone, downtown Manhattan has been given a new life in recent years, with more people flooding to the area to live and work everyday more than ever before, demonstrating the resilience of New Yorkers.

Although many of the buildings, including the alarmingly over-priced Transportation Hub, is now open to the public, one piece of the puzzle has remained under wraps until now. What was once only thought of as a concept, the World Trade Center Performing Arts Center is finally moving forward. Brooklyn-based architectural firm REX will design the Performing Arts Center, creating a structure that is modern yet familiar and classic. The building will be clad in marble that will allow light in and out of the structure, illuminating the structure at night. With numerous consideration for the community and reconfigurable spaces that can stay flexible, the building feels appropriate for the site as well as its intended purpose of bringing people together.