Chapel Redesign and Spatial Integration Plan

I. Executive Summary

Project Overview

Chapel Exterior & Landscape 3D Rendering by Elkins School of Art

This proposal presents the comprehensive redesign and reinterpretation of the Elkins School of Art Chapel, including its architectural exterior, surrounding landscape, chapel office renovation, and ground floor spatial layout plan.

The Chapel stands as both a historical landmark and the spiritual and creative center of the campus. The project seeks to renew this identity through thoughtful design that harmonizes heritage, modernity, and community function.

Key Focus Areas

Architectural Reinterpretation of the Chapel Exterior
Landscape Design Concept and Campus Integration
Chapel Office Renovation Plan
Ground Floor Layout & Circulation Strategy

II. Architectural Reinterpretation

Reimagining the Chapel as the Heart of the Campus

October 2025 — Aerial view of the campus captured by drone, with Downtown Philadelphia visible in the background.

1. Concept Statement
The design redefines the Chapel as “a place where light, nature, and community meet.”
Rather than merely restoring the structure, this proposal seeks to establish a renewed architectural identity that celebrates the Chapel as the spiritual and artistic heart of Elkins School of Art.

2. Design Intent

Preserve the symbolic red-brick façade while introducing warm wooden textures
Emphasize transparency and openness through continuous horizontal glazing

3. Material & Façade Strategy

Brick (heritage continuity)
Wood cladding (natural warmth and material contrast)
Black metal frame (structural precision and modern identity)
Glass (light and transparency as architectural expression)

4. Architectural Expression
The composition embodies balance between permanence and renewal — where historical texture meets contemporary simplicity. Natural light becomes a key design element, transforming the Chapel into a Chapel of Light that reflects faith and creativity.

III. Landscape Design Concept

Connecting Nature, Architecture, and Community

1. Design Principles

Integration: Architectural geometry and landscape rhythm are unified.
Continuity: The horizontal façade lines extend into the surrounding gardens.
Community: Outdoor spaces are designed for fellowship and interaction.
Seasonality: Planting composition expresses color and texture throughout the year.

2. Key Zones

Main Entry Garden: Formal entry with low shrubs and flowering beds welcoming visitors.
Community Lawn: Open green space for gathering after services and events.
Courtyard Area: Benches and lighting provide a calm setting for reflection and conversation.

3. Planting Strategy

Mix of perennials and evergreens for year-round texture.
Layered planting to soften the building’s geometry.
Selection based on low maintenance and visual continuity with campus ecology.

IV. Chapel Sanctuary Design

Reimagining the Worship Space as a Chapel of Light

1. Design Concept

The redesigned Chapel Sanctuary embodies the essence of clarity, warmth, and transcendence.

By reinterpreting the mid-century structure with a renewed focus on natural light and material harmony, the design transforms the sanctuary into a contemplative environment where architecture itself becomes an expression of worship.

The spatial composition celebrates simplicity—an open hall defined by light, wood, and air.
The interplay of natural illumination and restrained geometry creates a sacred atmosphere that is both intimate and expansive, inviting stillness and reflection.

2. Light and Spatial Experience

Light serves as both material and message in the sanctuary’s design.
Large horizontal windows on both sides flood the space with daylight, producing a serene rhythm of illumination that changes throughout the day.
Above, exposed wooden beams and soft curves frame the volume, guiding the gaze toward the front focal wall—the visual and spiritual center of the space.

At the altar, a custom-built large LED panel wall—composed of multiple high-definition display modules—serves as the new visual heart of the Chapel.
This feature enables the dynamic projection of Christian imagery, sacred art, and meditative video sequences, allowing the sanctuary to adapt its atmosphere to different seasons, events, and worship experiences.
Through this integration of architecture and digital expression, the Chapel becomes an immersive environment where light, image, and faith converge.

3. Symbolism and Intent

The illuminated cross, rendered through the central LED wall, symbolizes divine light emanating into the assembly.
It reflects the belief that modern technology, when thoughtfully integrated, can serve as a vessel for sacred storytelling.
Every element—from the curvature of the walls to the rhythm of the beams—directs attention toward this luminous symbol of presence and hope.

V. Chapel Office Renovation Plan

Creating a Warm, Functional, and Contemplative Workspace

Chapel Office Interior Design 3D Rendering by Elkins School of Art

1. Design Vision

The Chapel Office renovation reimagines the interior as a multifunctional workspace that supports both administrative operations and moments of reflection.
Serving as the administrative heart of the Chapel, the design emphasizes simplicity, natural light, and human warmth, aligning with the aesthetic language of the overall campus redevelopment.

The concept aims to create a space that feels calm yet active, modern yet timeless—a setting where daily tasks, creative discussions, and quiet meditation can coexist harmoniously.

2. Spatial Zoning & Function

The renovated Chapel Office is organized into two primary zones:

Meeting & Work Area

A long wooden conference table anchors the space, surrounded by light wooden chairs.
The wall-mounted low bookshelves define a strong horizontal axis while offering accessible storage for reference materials, campus archives, and art books.
The combination of wood and soft gray tones enhances a sense of warmth and order, while abstract wall art introduces subtle color rhythm and visual balance.

Lounge & Reflection Area

The rear of the office transitions into a comfortable lounge with a large sectional sofa facing generous windows.
This area is designed as a restorative space—a place for informal meetings, creative dialogue, or quiet contemplation.
Indoor plants and diffused natural light create a connection to the surrounding garden, reinforcing the sense of serenity and renewal that defines the Chapel’s architectural identity.

3. Design Language and Materials

Color Palette: Neutral beige and warm wood tones that convey calmness and focus.
Materials: Natural oak wood, fabric upholstery, matte black fixtures, and minimal framed art.
Lighting:
- Pendant lighting over the meeting table for intimacy and focus.
- Floor and wall lights for layered ambient illumination.
- Natural daylight maximized through large windows and soft shades for adjustable brightness.
Furnishings:
- Modular bookshelves and integrated storage systems.
- Ergonomic yet timeless wooden furniture crafted for longevity and tactile comfort.
- Carefully selected decorative objects that reflect simplicity and craftsmanship.

VI. Ground Floor Layout Plan

Reorganizing the Chapel’s Foundation Space for Function, Flow, and Fellowship

1. Design Overview

The Ground Floor Plan represents a comprehensive reconfiguration of the lower level of the Chapel to better support the life of the campus community.
The design introduces a functional, open, and light-filled layout that accommodates multiple uses—ranging from gatherings and small events to meetings, dining, and quiet study.
This floor plan strengthens the connection between spiritual space and daily activity, aligning with the Chapel’s broader architectural philosophy of openness and integration.

2. Spatial Composition

The restructured plan is divided into three key programmatic zones:

A. Main Gathering Hall

Serves as a multi-purpose hall for student assemblies, seminars, small community meals, or post-service fellowship.
The open arrangement of tables and chairs allows flexible use for both formal and informal activities.
Full-height windows along the exterior wall provide generous natural light and create a strong visual dialogue between interior and landscape.
This space becomes the heart of the ground floor, fostering connection and participation.

B. Kitchen & Service Area

The kitchen is designed as a central service core, equipped to support both hospitality and campus events.
Features include: a central island, ample counter workspace, and visual openness through glass partitions.
The use of transparent materials ensures continuity between preparation and gathering areas, reinforcing the spirit of shared community.

C. Lounge & Fireplace Room

A smaller, more private space adjacent to the main area, designed for intimate meetings or reflective conversation.
The fireplace feature wall, wood shelving, and soft furnishings create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
It functions as a quiet retreat within the building—balancing the openness of the main hall with a sense of calm enclosure.

3. Circulation & Connectivity

Circulation has been simplified and clarified, allowing intuitive movement between rooms.
The main corridor links the gathering hall, kitchen, and lounge seamlessly while maintaining accessibility.
Strategic placement of entrances supports multiple access points for staff, visitors, and maintenance, ensuring efficient use of space during events.

4. Material and Lighting Strategy

Flooring: Natural oak wood finish for warmth and continuity with the upper Chapel levels.
Walls: Neutral tones emphasizing brightness and simplicity.
Lighting: Layered system of recessed ceiling lights and pendant fixtures, complemented by daylight streaming through expansive glazing.
Furnishings: Light wooden furniture consistent with the design language of the Chapel Office renovation, promoting visual and material coherence across the building.

5. Design Significance

The Ground Floor redesign transforms an underused lower level into a vibrant communal platform.
Through a balance of function and atmosphere, the space becomes an extension of the Chapel’s mission—to gather, reflect, and connect.
It harmonizes with the upper-level worship area both in material language and in purpose:
to serve as a foundation, both literally and symbolically, for the spiritual and creative life of the Elkins School of Art.