July 16, 2008 - Victoria Wood Studio - Silver Finalists - Care Awards
VWS entered it's project, Passageway - St. John the
Divine in the category, Best Outdoor Living Space. This same
project is also entered in an International Awards program for
Religious Art and Architecture. The following is a project
description;
Epiphany is a passageway installed
in the courtyard of St. John the Divine Anglican Church on Quadra
St. Located a few yards in from a busy street at the intersection of two paths, it is an invitation to leave behind the
secular world and enter a reflective space.
The St. John's congregation wished to create a softer
entrance through the garden door. It would need to be
accessible
and not strain the maintenance budget. It should encourage people
to "re-enter" an
old tradition in a new way. Yet
it should harmonize with the historic church building and courtyard.
The designer echoed features
found in the neo-Gothic architecture of the Church. Yet the use of curves in both the rafters and side panels and the
clear cedar soften the concrete and brick exterior symbolizing new life. The
lookout posts attached to each
side add stability and connection to the earth. Gentle
hammering on the posts and
brackets further softens the structure.
Inside, there is a feeling of being
held. The portals in the side panels encourage views of both the church building and the garden courtyard. Yet
the repetitive use of five
rafters and the waves in the side panels denote fluidity and passage. The crosses seem to reassure that faith will sustain
the seeker throughout the journey.
The passageway was built in the
designer's workshop and installed on site. Traditional joinery was used for
both strength and beauty. An environmental finish ensures ease of maintenance and encourages
touch. The openness of the design ensures accessibility.
 |
Much like the copper spire of the
historic church, Epiphany acts as an invitation to all those who wish to enter into the light, to open to the presence of
God.
The winners in both Award ceremonies will be
announced in the Fall, 2008. |
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