This project focuses on designing a new facility adjacent to an iconic and historic Byzantine church while addressing a very traditional congregation. The concept embraces the idea that the new structure serves as a canvass to the art (the church).
Detailing is intentionally restrained and simple, so to not compete with the intricate exterior of the church. Minimal exterior materials; i.e. masonry, western cedar and glazing; with clean intersections aid in this regard. The western red cedar is reintroduced into the interior. The new building spans the width of a block, intentionally set back from the street in deference to the historic building and to lessen its impact on the smaller-scale surrounding neighborhood. An open and formal green space between the church and the new building connects the two structures in a simple manner. This separation was important as it relates to the classical siting of the church.
Firm: Bello Garris Architects in association with Liollio Architecture
Location: Charleston, SC
Photo: © 2022 Richard Leo Johnson/Atlantic Archives, Inc.
