This seminar explores the National Civil Rights Museum (NCRM) in Memphis as both a historic landmark and a living institution shaped by intentional design. From its origins as the Lorraine Motel to its role as an internationally recognized Smithsonian affiliate, the course examines how architecture has supported the Museum’s ability to evolve alongside modern justice movements. More than a site of preservation, the NCRM demonstrates how design can activate memory, foster dialogue, and invite civic participation. Its spaces and exhibits preserve the stories, strategies, and voices that advanced the Civil Rights Movement following the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., while encouraging visitors to reflect on their role in the ongoing pursuit of justice. The seminar is organized into four modules:1. Founding (1968-1991): Transformation from segregation-era motel to national heritage site.2. Expansion (2000-2014): Design strategies that repositioned the Museum as a civic and community forum.3. Evolution (2026): New renovation approaches creating safe, flexible interior and exterior spaces for gathering, organizing, and public expression.4. Where Do We Go From Here?: The role of architects in helping cultural institutions respond to social change and shape justice-centered futures.