Sacred Space
Merit Award // Small Projects, Small Firms
Architect // Sheldon Pennoyer Architects
GC // Jenne Construction
Structural Engineering // Roome and Guarracino
Jury Comments
The jury really appreciated the simple approach done very well and very elegantly. And sometimes those are the hardest design problems in the end, is to keep it simple. We really appreciated how, within the budget limitations, that design was able to accomplish so much with very precise and deliberate choices. It seems to meet the program needs very well. The flexibility of the space seems to really serve the community.
Description
The simple, refined design of the Sacred Space in the hills of Vermont serves as a non-denominational chapel, as well as meditative space for yoga, pilates, and other wellness practices. As a component to a retreat center, the sacred space was designed as a small-scale homage to Fay Jones’ Thorncrown Chapel. As a non-denominational sacred space, the design invites people from many beliefs to gather and share cultures. It also offers a space for exercise and reflection. The framed views to the surrounding Vermont hills provide a connection to nature; the simple expression of the architecture clears the mind.
