Neo-Gothic details distinguish the transparent glassy enclosure .
solution is what might be described as a re-invention of Gothic architecture , fashioned from copper instead of stone . The material ’ s color resonates with the older building ’ s brownstone , and its lacy details permit a glassy envelope , revealing the warm interior to the courtyard and Westminster Street beyond . It ’ s a glass box that belongs to its time and place . Inside , the vaulted ceiling of perforated metal panels recalls the vaults of Upjohn ’ s church , but with a twist : the “ ribs ” between the vaults are missing to reveal downlights that wash the interior space . The small round perforations in the sheet metal dampen sound reverberation in the space , making it ideal for musical performances .
The Pavilion opens out onto the courtyard that is raised above the street by about four or five feet , giving it a prospect on the thoroughfare and subtly insulating it from the bustle of cars and pedestrians . Light and dark granite paving in the courtyard is laid out in a labyrinth pattern — a popular feature that many have walked . The courtyard is open to anyone during the day ( just as the church is ) and Huyck and Barker report that it is
a popular spot for people to sit and read or relax with a cup of coffee . A kids ’ reading group from a local library are regular visitors .
A metal fence and gate with Gothic details extends across the courtyard as it faces the street . It was added after the Pavilion was completed as a deterrent to unwelcome visitors after hours , and its presence is an unfortunate necessity in this urban context . Congregations everywhere struggle with the balance between welcoming , openness and vigilance .
The American theologian Harvey Cox has observed that in a religiously diverse world , where fear of “ the other ” is common , it ’ s essential for houses of worship — especially in cities — to create space for those both “ inside ” and “ outside ” the faith community as a setting to get to know the other . As Cox told me in an interview , reflecting on this contemporary need , “ we can share spaces without losing much , in fact we might even gain something from it .”
The Pavilion and its courtyard are proven assets for this neighborhood and the city of Providence , as well as for Grace Church .
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