Divine Inspiration

Vertical bands of coloured glass and multi-coloured metal played an important role in the remodelling process of Gethsemane Lutheran Church in downtown Seattle. When given the task of updating this existing 1950s building and integrating it with additional worship, housing and social programmes, Olson Kundig Architects decided to go beyond the usual route. In an effort to give the place of worship a distinctive edge, the firm introduced warm-toned handcrafted glass windows with colour-changing features as per the time of the day. After being reborn, the serene and calm chapel now acts as a beacon of light for the passerbys and marks its presence within the district of high-rises.