At the heart of the Obama Presidential Library, architecture and storytelling come together in a breathtaking display. Designed by Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects, the library’s façade features a monumental quote from President Obama’s speech honoring the 50th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery marches. Each word is cast into custom UHPC letter panels, crafted to endure for generations.

To bring President Obama’s vision to life, the design team entrusted Envel with the intricate task of creating these iconic panels. Over nearly five years, Envel worked closely with architects and engineers to shape this one-of-a-kind installation, where words rise boldly against the Chicago skyline.

We played a crucial role in realizing the Obama Library, delivering the architects’ bold aesthetic demands and the project’s long-term performance goals.

• Custom UHPC Letter Panels – Envel produced every panel using an architectural-grade UHPC mix known for its high compressive strength, low porosity, and long-term durability—essential in Chicago’s challenging climate.
• Precision Engineering – Advanced modeling and engineering analysis enabled the creation of letterforms and geometries never before achieved in concrete.
• Collaborative Craftsmanship – Partnering with Fine Concrete for mold design, Envel ensured every letter maintained sharp, consistent definition across panels.
• Commitment to Sustainability – The durability and low maintenance of UHPC contribute to the Obama Presidential Center’s broader sustainability goals.

The result is more than a wall of words—it’s a timeless testament to perseverance, progress, and the power of remembrance.

Creating the monumental panels for the Obama Presidential Library required extraordinary attention to detail:

• 52 Unique Molds –  Custom templates and mold systems ensured the seamless connection of full and partial letters.
• 24 Giant Letters – Standing 5 feet 2 inches tall, the letterforms omit Q and Z, staying true to the original quote’s composition.
• Monumental Panels – Each panel measures between 20 to 30 feet tall and 9 to 13 feet wide, weighing from 11,000 to 20,000 pounds, with a depth of one foot.
• Custom Typeface – The panels feature a Gothic typeface originally used during President Obama’s 2008 campaign, adding a layer of narrative to the structure.
• Precision Installation – Laser scanning ensures precise placement with a ½-inch adjustment tolerance.
• Integrated Structural Systems – Stainless steel embeds and brackets, custom-fabricated by Envel, secure the panels safely and elegantly.

With each casting cycle taking 5 to 7 days, and production spanning over 15 months, every letter panel embodies careful planning, artistic precision, and engineering innovation.

Through innovation, collaboration, and dedication to excellence, we’re proud to have contributed to the Obama Presidential Library, where architecture, history, and hope converge in a truly transformative project.

Discover how Envel’s expertise in UHPC solutions can bring your vision to life. Contact us today!