The Latte of Freedom project began as a bicentennial project by Governor Ricardo J. Bordallo. His vision was to reflect the proud heritage of the Guamanian people and the freedom that all Americans enjoy by means of a giant latte housing a museum and presentation center.

The project was not realized at the time of his death but the Foundation and it’s fundraising effort continued. In 2008, the Foundation, spearheaded by his wife Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo, commissioned TRMA for a new location adjacent to the Ricardo J. Bordallo Governor’s Complex. Sited on a promontory of land overlooking the northern coastline, the monument would share land with a building previously housing the Guam Museum.

TRMA studied numerous designs, relationships, sizes, and locations. The final solution called for renovation of the existing building as The Hall of Governors, a new 65-foot tall latte observations tower placed closer to the point, and an interconnecting curved walkway elevated over the natural landscape. This placement ensured a clear identification of the latte when viewed from afar, while affording magnificent views from an observation deck located inside the cap stone.

The tower is constructed of cast-in-place concrete using a natural rock formliner finish with a variated stain patina. The Hall was entirely re-modeled and brought into code compliance. Exhibits and signage were designed by the Department of Chamorro Affairs. The project utilized original artifacts and furniture from the prewar period of Guam’s history.