American architect Philip Johnson’s design is a cenotaph, or “open tomb,” that symbolizes the freedom of President Kennedy’s spirit.
The memorial, a square, roofless room, 30 feet high and 50 by 50 feet wide, sits in the middle of the block with narrow openings facing north and south.
The walls consist of 72 white pre-cast concrete columns, most of which seem to float with no visible support 29 inches above the ground.
Eight columns extend to the ground, acting as legs that seem to hold up the monument. Each column ends in a light fixture. At night, the lights create the illusion that the light itself supports the structure.
There is a block of granite (you can see it underneath) with just the name John Fitzgerald Kennedy on it. No stature. Tour guide said it was to symbolize his unfinished work.