| “Uplifting” and “inspiring” are
the two words most commonly associated with the soaring design
of the 5,000-square-foot Bigelow Chapel at United Theological
Seminary.
We used curving panels of thin, translucent maple
and acrylic to bring an unusually soft, yet dynamic, look
and feel to this peaceful sanctuary. The rippling, honey-colored
panels provide rich, wood-filtered light and a sense of warmth,
covering worshipers with a canopy of calm.
Inspired to create
something that had never been done before, we encapsulated
veneer between non-reflective acrylic sheets to filter light
from the chapel’s glass wall and skylights.
The result
is an intimacy with nature and an enhanced worship experience.
Quilted maple on the floor and rectangular panels from the
dropped ceiling of the processional hall into the sanctuary
reinforce the unique design elements.
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Location
New Hope, MN
Architect
Hammel, Green & Abrahamson, Inc.
General Contractor
M.A. Mortenson Construction
Awards
Grand Prize, Veneer Technologies, Inc. Craftsman’s
Challenge
2006 Custom Woodworking Business Design
Portfolio Award in architectural millwork category, as well
as overall winner
2006 American Institute of Architects
(AIA) Institute Honor Award. |
