Meaning: Lawrence Halprin, a renowned American landscape architect, made this profound statement in reference to his work on the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial in Washington, D.C. The memorial, dedicated to the 32nd President of the United States, is a testament to Halprin's innovative approach to landscape architecture and his deep understanding of the human experience.

Halprin's words convey the essence of his design philosophy, which revolves around creating multi-sensory experiences for visitors. The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, which was completed in 1997, is a prime example of this philosophy in action. The memorial is a series of outdoor rooms, each representing a different part of Roosevelt's presidency and legacy, and is designed to engage visitors on a variety of sensory levels.

Halprin's emphasis on engaging the senses reflects his belief in the power of environmental design to evoke emotional and intellectual responses. The memorial incorporates elements such as water features, sculptures, and carefully curated plantings to create an immersive experience that encourages visitors to see, hear, feel, and even smell the surroundings. By doing so, Halprin aimed to create a space that would not only educate visitors about Roosevelt's presidency but also evoke a deeper emotional connection to his legacy and the historical events of his time.

The architect's personal connection to the subject matter is also evident in his statement. Having lived through the era of Franklin Delano Roosevelt's presidency and the transformative events of the Great Depression and World War II, Halprin's approach to the memorial was deeply influenced by his own experiences. This personal connection likely contributed to the authenticity and emotional resonance of the design, as Halprin sought to convey the significance of Roosevelt's legacy in a way that would be meaningful to visitors who may not have directly experienced that historical period.

In addition to its sensory engagement, the memorial is also notable for its innovative use of space and form. The design incorporates a sequence of outdoor "rooms" that guide visitors through different stages of Roosevelt's presidency, from his early years to his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II. Each room is carefully crafted to evoke specific emotions and themes, providing a dynamic and immersive journey through history.

Furthermore, Halprin's quote highlights the idea that his design process was not a detached intellectual exercise but rather a deeply personal and experiential endeavor. His intention to create a memorial that catered to different senses underscores his commitment to making the experience accessible and impactful for a wide range of visitors.

In conclusion, Lawrence Halprin's statement regarding the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial encapsulates his commitment to creating meaningful, multi-sensory experiences through landscape architecture. His approach to engaging the senses, combined with his personal connection to the historical events represented in the memorial, resulted in a design that continues to resonate with visitors and serves as a powerful testament to Roosevelt's enduring legacy.