AWARDS RELIGIOUS ARCHITECTURE / RENOVATION
St . Paul ’ s Lutheran Church Victoria , Australia
Law Architects Victoria , Australia
St . Paul ’ s Lutheran Church was designed and built in 1964 . The existing church is listed on the register of heritage buildings of the state of Victoria . This renovation project leaves the core of the original design untouched while reflecting the congregation ’ s contemporary identity . Removing the narthex walls expands the sanctuary and provides a visual connection to the cross , altar , and font from the entrance . The sanctuary has enough space for gathering during communion . Replacing carpet in the nave with a stone floor enhances a sense of sacrality , highlighting the spatial relationship between the church ’ s elements . Demolition of the false ceiling above the sanctuary accentuates the verticality expressed by the reredos and the acoustic timber-panel wall . Natural and semiprecious materials create a space to elevate the spirit and reconnect with the sublime .
Jury Comments The architects involved in the St . Paul ’ s Lutheran Church project exercised great restraint in maintaining the essence of this church ’ s original design while updating and expanding the space to accommodate current liturgical needs . The work has been done with great sensitivity and makes a beautiful historic church ready to serve the 21 st century .
Drew Echberg Photography
Bigelow Chapel Renovation / Addition Watertown , Massachusetts
William Rawn Associates , Architects Boston , Massachusetts
Mount Auburn Cemetery , consecrated in 1831 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 2003 , is recognized as one of the most significant designed landscapes in the United States . The transformation of its chapel focused on revitalization and a new crematory . In addition to making the chapel accessible , the restoration seamlessly incorporates fire-protection and improved lighting , lowers the chancel to its original height , and restores the rose window . The glass-walled addition is detailed to maximize transparency and preserve the architectural identity of the chapel . The addition is kept low and horizontal in juxtaposition to the verticality of the chapel ’ s ornate spires . Following the cremation ceremony , the doors to a gathering room open , and , in an affirmation of life , participants return to the landscape ’ s panoramic views .
Jury Comments It is an incredible rebirth of a New England landmark , giving it a new lease on life to serve the changing ceremonial needs of the region ’ s growing population of Buddhists and Hindus , who desire a respectful place for cremation rites . The result is a melding of old and new , with sweeping views of Mount Auburn ’ s historic landscape .
Robert Benson Photography
20 SACRED PLACES • SUMMER 2021