G
race Episcopal Church has occupied a prominent spot on Westminster Street in Providence , Rhode Island , since the early 1830s , when a congregation was founded in the city ’ s developing west end , across the Providence River from the city ’ s oldest precincts .
The congregation bought an old theater on the site and occupied it until 1846 , when a new sanctuary by the celebrated church architect Richard Upjohn was completed . As beautiful as Upjohn ’ s building is , it has the drawbacks of many old churches : thick walls , heavy doors , windows you can ’ t see through — architecture that frustrates the creation of community with the surrounding neighborhood . A few years ago a parking lot just west of the church became available , and the congregation decided to create a new landmark on
Westminster Street as a way to reach out to Providence : the “ Pavilion at Grace ,” as it ’ s known , designed by Centerbrook Architects .
“ We view the new building as an extension of our ministry ,” explains Rev . Jonathan Huyck , Rector of Grace Episcopal . The narrow but deep site offered an opportunity to recess the new multipurpose building from the edge of Westminster Street ( which the church fronts ), creating a welcoming courtyard next to the Upjohn church and in front of the Pavilion . “ It is one of the few new public spaces in downtown Providence ,” notes Huyck , adding that the Pavilion itself is one of the first new buildings on the street in decades .
The intent was to create welcoming interior and exterior spaces not only to serve the church , but the community as well . “ It ’ s use by the community has been robust ,” says Christopher Barker , Director of Administration at Grace . As expected , the soaring , vaulted interior of the Pavilion — beautifully illuminated with soft light and wonderful views out to Westminster Street — has become a popular spot for wedding receptions . But it ’ s not just for parties . Barker ticks off a list of national and local non-profit
Grace Pavilion ’ s crowded courtyard provides a lively hub along the street .
SACRED PLACES • FALL / WINTER 2021 / 22 27