The next museum I visited was the Nation Museum of African American History and Culture designed by David Adjaye. The exterior of the building is a bronze coated aluminum with a design inspired by the ironwork created by American slaves. It was a pretty overcast day so it has quite a muted tone. From images I’ve seen at blue hour the color of this building really seems to shine later in the day and when filled with lights.

The first stop once inside was the cafe. Yes, I was starving, lol. It proved to be a good stop because the ceiling details were pretty interesting to photograph.

On the way down to the cafe, which was on the first lower level (there are 3), there’s this great black, curvy staircase. One area has a gray wall as a backdrop while just next to it is this fantastic, vibrant, blue wall. The contrast in colors is really beautiful.


Just across from the staircase is the Contemplative Court, which has this circular dome raining down water in the center of this space. It certainly evokes a contemplative state.

The bronze colored walls are a beautiful color. And beams of light that line the room create nice reflections in the corners if you get close enough.

All DC images here.