Community spaces are key to bringing people to the Obama Presidential Center, and in making it thrive within the context of a city neighborhood and public park.  The scale of the center and street-fronting orientation are designed to reflect the primarily mid-scale, urban setting, reminiscent of existing patterns.  High ceilings and a weightless appearance of many elements reflect the nobility of the space while asserting an inviting, approachable character.  In this way, despite clearly comprising a new cultural landmark, the Center’s design positions it less as a distant specter to behold, and more as a community resource to be celebrated.