i visited the Cathedral of Christ the Light (click on photos in the gallery on the left of the page) a few weeks back to hear the architect from SOM tell about the project. it’s the first time i’ve gone to a lecture about a building in the building and it really got me thinking about what a different experience that was. rather than show photos of the 4 stories of wooden slats, he just pointed to them. when he spoke of the white light panels at the entrance and the ceiling, we turned around to see them. and when we told of the story of the relief sculpture of Jesus 2 stories high at the front and center of the room, He (as in Jesus) was already looking right at us. unfortunately, it was also night… which made any mention of warm, indirect lighting, or sunlight patterns painted on the floor an architectural taunt.
i think my critique of the space was the most authentic it could be. i wasn’t visiting the building later and trying to recall his spoken intent. no, i was there process as he was communicated. it truly was a unique situation and one i hope to replicate as often as i can.
if ever you’re in the bay area and i’m not enough excuse for you already, or are around but want an architecture immersion, let me know. i have an phenomenal place in mind for us to explore.
