Interfaith Chapel Renovation at The Residences at Thomas Circle
Friday, June 22, 2012 at 5:15PM It has been a busy year and we wanted to show some projects that are currently in design and construction.
The first project is the Interfaith Chapel at The Residences at Thomas Circle. This project is a renovation of an existing chapel in a senior retirement community that opened in 1963. A small chapel that exists off the central lobby had not been updated in many years, and was in dire need of renovations and 'sprucing up'. Some of the residents thought it would be a great idea to make the chapel into a space that would effectively serve the diversifying community and create a more welcoming environment within a very small, interior room. Many of the residents did not even know there was a chapel in their building.
Through a series of small workshops, it was established that the primary need of the interfaith chapel was to accommodate a variety of religious services. By incorporating flexibility into the design, we were readily able to accommodate this goal. A few strategic design choices created a dynamic and pleasing space. Curtains are planned to cover existing stained glass windows when not appropriate for any particular form of worship. New chairs and a moveable table are designed for the space, and a large closet area for storage also creates needed hidden storage for various items used in the space.
The space is made brighter and more welcoming through the introductionof a new drywall ceiling along with upgraded lighting and a new wooden floor. In addition, we designed a glass effect “feature” wall that begins to add visual interest and is a subtle nod to the stained glass existing in the room without presenting obvious religious iconography. The three opposite walls shimmer with a marble stone tile that is lit by linear wall fixtures. These changes provide more openness despite the low ceiling and the existing small room dimensions.
Finally, the entrance will be transformed with a new wood and glass door and a double sided fountain that will provide ambient noise while services are being performed. Previously, a nondescript solid door stood in place, but the alterations now make the chapel visible and inviting from the lobby and give the room a more distinct identity.
The project is entering into it's fundraising stages now and updates on the progress will come in the near future.