Sacred Places Summer 2024 | Page 26

AWARD FOR RELIGIOUS ARCHITECTURE : RENOVATION
Mother Temple Lu ’ o ’ ng So ’ n , Hòa Bình , Vietnam Akasha + Associates architecture
The unique and diverse Mother Faith of Vietnam was recorded by UNESCO in 2017 . Although Mother worship has declined or disappeared in some cultures , the ancient tradition has been preserved in Vietnam and continues as a vital part of communal life . In the Vietnamese tradition there are three heart-cores — Mother of Sky , Mother of Water , and Mother of Earth — represented by the colors red , white , and green , respectively .
The new temple at Lu ’ o ’ ng So ’ n is a modern concept , built on the same site as an old wooden temple that was destroyed by termites . A magnificent landscape of mountains and water surrounds the building .
The design incorporates elements of water , light , and air to emphasize the natural world . The inward pure and simple atmosphere invites visitors to experience deep emotions and traditions of the Mother faith . The temple also features educational “ middle ” spaces to teach visitors about the history of the faith before they enter the core .
JURY COMMENTS :
Using architectural elements of the original design , this project replaces an older temple essentially destroyed by termites . The new temple has a sense of permanence and sensitively exhibits a thoughtful connection to the indigenous tropical landscape and a provocative use of color .
Akasha + Associates
AWARD FOR RELIGIOUS ARCHITECTURE : RENOVATION
Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church Bryn Mawr , PA Voith & Mactavish Architects
The congregation of Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church felt its historic campus could be improved to better support its members and community-oriented activities . By working with the existing architecture wherever possible , the design team created strategic improvements that focused on the church ’ s main priorities : improving accessibility , strengthening programs , and celebrating community .
The Education Building was the first project to move forward . A new , at-grade entry vestibule , carefully designed to integrate with the existing building , replaced the original tall steps . Inside , a new elevator and central gathering area were key to reconfiguring circulation for greater efficiency and accessibility .
The second phase addressed interconnected improvements to the Ministries Center , Converse House , and Sanctuary . A new atrium created a prominent main entrance while also serving as a comfortable , accessible , and protected pathway from the Sanctuary into the Ministries
Center and its court . The entrance is universally accessible at two levels , and new , all-gender restrooms are also a welcome addition . A former meeting room was converted into a gallery for local artists . Meanwhile , a renovated multipurpose room can be used for variously sized events and doubles as a space for part of the congregation ’ s library . On the upper floors , existing space was redesigned specifically for older children and young adults . Inside Converse House , the historic
parlor was converted into a small meeting room that doubles as a getting-ready room for brides .
JURY COMMENTS : This project is exceptionally skillful in improving existing spaces while paying homage to the original design . It makes the facility more welcoming , accessible , and versatile . The scale of the new spaces is sensitive and works with the existing architectural context . It provides a great sense of entrance .
Jeffrey Totaro
26 SACRED PLACES • SUMMER 2024