Project Grace
Designed as a new civic destination for learning, discovery, and community engagement, this forward-looking cultural hub unites the Cape Fear Museum and New Hanover County Library within a single landmark building that honors Wilmington’s past while embracing its future.
LOCATION Wilmington, NC
COMPLETED 2025
SIZE 95,000 SF
PHOTOGRAPHER Jordan Powers
Inspired by Place
Rooted in the architectural character of downtown Wilmington, the building combines timeless materials such as brick and ballast stone with contemporary sustainable design strategies. High-performance glazing and a sweeping photovoltaic roof canopy create a striking architectural expression while supporting long-term environmental stewardship. The design balances permanence and innovation, creating a civic presence that reflects both the city’s rich heritage and its evolving future.
A Destination for Exploration
Bringing two beloved institutions together under one roof, the facility creates new opportunities for collaboration, efficiency, and public engagement. The Cape Fear Museum features a state-of-the-art planetarium, flexible gallery spaces, outdoor exhibit terraces, and a dramatic public display of its iconic giant sloth skeleton, visible from the adjacent plaza. Complementing the museum, the New Hanover County Library provides a dynamic environment for all ages, including dedicated spaces for children, teens, local history collections, community programs, archives, and gathering spaces. Together, the institutions form an interconnected cultural destination designed to inspire curiosity, foster lifelong learning, and strengthen community connections.
