Portfolio: Retreat Center Chapel

This is a renovation of a cruciform chapel which was built as part of a retreat center in the 1980s. The client asked that the existing nondescript chapel be transformed into a place of awe and wonder. The interior of the chapel employs Corinthian columns and pilasters of the largest possible scale (17') in order to give a sense of verticality. Corinthian is often employed in chapels dedicated to the Virgin, in honor of her beauty and holiness. The sanctuary is articulated by two steps and two low marble walls with bas reliefs. The ambo is integrated into the left wall. A Composite baldachino out of marble and bronze surrounds the altar. The Tabernacle is within the wall and becomes identified and integrated with the central painting of the Annunciation. Life size saints are on the paintings to either side, as well as in small shrine areas which would function well for prayer and private devotion (i.e. St. Therese and St. Francis). A small organ could be placed in the transept, which would also be used for overflow seating. A ceiling would be added in the two transepts with curved openings to bring in light and allow any stained glass to be seen from the nave. The existing soffits over the transepts would be hidden by decorative panels, brackets, and paintings similar to many churches in Rome. The overall effect is one of beauty, harmony and transcendence.