Cylindrical
churches are hardly conventional, yet the pure geometric forms and
simple materials that Lawrence Cook Associates used on this building
create a clearly religious identity.
A dramatic
glass and steel steeple rises from a conical roof in a contemporary
fashion. And the roof itself takes a modern bow to ancient structures.
Curved decks flow around circular concrete brick walls, undulating
in width to accommodate outdoor gatherings and leave room for mature
trees.
For
all the impact a curvilinear exterior makes, it can upset the balance
of function and aesthetics inside. To resolve such conflicting demands,
Cook created a church floor plan that has a square inscribed within
a circle. Large wooden posts stand at the corners of the square, supporting
four parabolic arches. A central oculus opens to the cupola and steeple
above.
