The church of Saint Vincent de Paul in San Diego was originally constructed in 1968, and over time lost spatial clarity and liturgical focus due to a number of remodels. Our comprehensive renovation included the removal of a choir loft that obscured the original arched entry, the redesign of the altar and custom liturgical furnishings, and the expansion of side walls in order to add clerestories and ambulatories.
The resulting space has abundant natural light and design unity. The archway uncovered at the entrance is echoed at the altar, where a plaster arch lends focus to the crucifix lit by indirect light washed over an angled wall. The new ambulatories deliver colored light from receded stained glass windows, provide additional walkways for prayer and reflection, and hide new mechanical equipment. Finally, custom furnishings made of natural materials like cherry wood, alabaster, and basalt were designed in unity with the architecture.
