Chapel / Religious Education Building

The 16,300-sq.-ft. chapel at Sigonella blends traditional and modern creating a simple, yet sophisticated sanctuary that captures the spirit of its community. Designed to seat up to four hundred parishioners, the sanctuary hall extends two levels creating a voluminous worship chamber that instills peace and serenity. Natural light floods into the chamber through large expansive windows that connect to the environment and provide views of nearby Mount Etna. The building uses local materials of stucco, clay tile, terra cotta, vine-covered trellises coupled with modern elements that clarify use and purpose. An internal courtyard features a mazelike stone path modeled after the Chartres Cathedral labyrinth in France. The courtyard provides an intimate space for contemplation in quiet moments and social interaction in gatherings.