View of Chapel Entry / Photographer: Marcus Emerson, PLNU
Lyle and Grace Prescott Memorial Prayer Chapel, Point Loma Nazarene University
PrizeHonorable Mention in Architectural Design / Small Architecture
Firm LocationSan Diego, United States
CompanyCarrier Johnson + Culture
Lead ArchitectGordon Carrier, FAIA, NCARB
Design TeamArchitect / Design: Gordon R. Carrier, FAIA, NCARB, Design Principal Ray Varela, Design Principal Alex Gutierrez, Designer Nigel Glibbery, Construction Administration Charles Davis, Construction Admin
ClientPoint Loma Nazarene University Joe Watkins, Ph.D, Executive Vice President Bruce A. Kunkel, Associate Vice President for Campus Services and Sustainability
This chapel for a private Christian university in San Diego provides an intimate place for worship, reflection and prayer.
Importance is placed on the building’s entry sequence and the chapel’s form. The building’s tall concrete walls abstractly offer the image of arms reaching skyward, inviting heaven’s embrace. The corten entry portico is scaled to compress one’s experience on approach while expanding the experience after entry.
Access to the space has one’s focus ascending toward the solitary 12’ high cross. The tall, linear interior volume is simply expressed in concrete, wood and glass detail.