Gaines Group Blog

34. Thorncrown Chapel #105architecturalinspiration

What an amazing structure. Thorncrown Chapel is 48′ tall reaching up into the Ozark sky. This wooden structure has over 6,000 sf of glass with 425 windows. The simple structure and clean lines blends into the surroundings as if the structure was always on the site.

Designed by E. Fay Jones who studied under Frank Lloyd Wright at the Taliesen Fellowship. He states that his inspiration was Sainte Chappelle, Paris’ light filled gothic chapel. The structure is 24′ by 60′ and is made with all organic materials. The wooden trusses form a diamond pattern that filters the light entering the space.

The ambiance of the space is achieved using light, shadow, reflections, and the natural surroundings. Patterns constantly change as wind moves through the trees surrounding the structure. An amazing creation that will surely inspire generations of architects for years to come.

#105architecturalinspirations is a collection of architectural details, buildings, and spaces that inspire me. I am taking on the challenge of finding two projects to spotlight each week in 2015. Hopefully I will be able to keep up and this process of discovery will push me to create better design solutions for my clients as I research and learn more about those projects I enjoy most. I challenge you to add your comments below about this project and to post your own inspirations for all to enjoy.  Full List of previous #105architecturalinspiration posts 1 – 20. First 20 architectural inspirations here21. Michael Graves 22. St. Augustine 23. Guggenheim Museum24. Ocho House25.Bjarke Ingels 26. WG Clark 27. John F. Kennedy Space Center 28.Akademie Mont-Cenis 29. Sustainability Treehouse 30. Porch Rail 31. Martin Lurther King Jr. Memorial 32. Warehouse Renvoation 33. Architectural Salvage Warehouse