Perspectives in Architecture: A better Atlanta through brilliant architecture and art

Oscar Harris FAIA, NOMA recalls thirty years ago in Atlanta with fond memories. The city was preparing to host the 1996 Summer Olympics in a couple of years. Massive capital improvement projects were under construction across the Atlanta region to accommodate millions of anticipated visitors.

Since he opened his firm in 1977, the architect had led Turner Associates to design Hamilton Holmes MARTA Station, the Underground Atlanta revitalization, Atlanta Fulton County Government Center, and other civic projects with firm partner, Jim Graves.

Reflecting about this time, Harris observes, ”Atlanta Mayor Andrew Young, former Mayor Maynard Jackson, Jr. and Chair of the Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games Billy Payne understood the importance of good design to make a positive impression of Atlanta with visitors during and after the Centennial Olympic Games. Turner Associates had proven that we could design great projects.”

Despite the discrimination that Black architects faced with gaining development projects in the private sector, the firm secured significant civic projects for the Games, including Perimeter and Doraville MARTA Stations, Martin Luther King, Jr. Visitor Center, and the Look of the Centennial Olympic Games. Harris appreciates that Turner Associates’ projects for the 1996 Summer Olympics still benefit Atlanta.

Public art, a feature promoted by the firm with its design of Concourse E at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, has inspired a thriving public art program for the entire airport. The dramatic glass dome, curved walls, and clock tower in the firm’s atrium of the central passenger terminal project offer a welcoming space for travelers. Hermes Towers, the lighted sculptural columns created by the firm for Centennial Olympic Park, remain an iconic symbol of the Centennial Olympic Games and Atlanta.
Following the 1996 Summer Olympics, Turner Associates designed projects, such as the DeKalb County Justice Center, Georgia State University Student Center, Atlanta Police Headquarters Building, and Dynamic Metals Lofts.

Harris started the Atlanta Center for Creative Inquiry in 2004, concerned with the percentage of under-represented groups and women in the architectural profession. Renamed Spike Studio, this nonprofit organization has engaged 650 middle and high school students to promote greater diversity in the architecture, design, construction, and engineering industries. Harris was elevated as a Fellow by the American Institute of Architecture in 2006 for his national impact on the architectural profession.

The award-winning architect, business leader, and mentor has also earned accolades as an artist in recent years. His colorful, abstract paintings have been featured in exhibitions across Atlanta. Harris reflects, “My inspiration comes from everywhere. It might be the sound of John Coltrane’s sax, Miles Davis’s horn, or image compositions that I have locked in my mind while walking around.” Across multi-disciplines, Oscar Harris, FAIA, NOMA continues to elevate Atlanta with creativity and excellence.

For more information about Oscar Harris and his contribution to Atlanta architecture, tune into the Uplifting Places podcast hosted by Melody Harclerode.

INTOWN @ 30: This article is part of Atlanta Intown’s special 30th anniversary issue. Read more features at this link.