Lutheran School of Theology
Chicago, Illinois
Architect: Cone Kalb and
Wonderlick
This project entailed the conversion of an existing
three-story auditorium into a new two-story sanctuary and the
insertion of a new third floor to provide added office space.
In preparation for the new sanctuary, the existing 9,000 SF
sloped concrete stadium seating was carefully removed to make
way for new construction. The project also included new curtainwall bridges, a special indoor/outdoor baptismal font
and pool that extends from the sanctuary into an interior
courtyard. A new balcony and overhanging prayer
rooms were added at the second floor level. The new sanctuary
features a high level of finishes with curved slate flooring,
sliding and fixed stained glass panels, and a ceiling of
decorative hardwood panels, lit by concealed and pendant
fixtures.
Long-span steel joists were carefully inserted at the third
floor level to bridge the sanctuary space, and a new concrete
deck was poured to accommodate administrative offices. New
links were built to connect the School of Theology to the new
McCormick Theological Seminary Building. Sollitt also
constructed an underground parking structure next door.
Located within a busy campus, the project required careful
attention to phasing, site logistics, traffic control, and
housekeeping. Because of the Institute’s ongoing activities,
the site required careful isolation of construction operations
from the visitors, staff and students.
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Brian Fritz Architectural
Photography |
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