ST. JAMES PARISH HALL
Los Angeles, CAClient:
St. James Episcopal Church
Lot Size:
9,122 sf
Area:
15,504 sf
Status:
Dedicated, April 3, 1994
VTBS was entrusted with designing a modern yet historically respectful Parish Hall adjacent to the neo-Gothic St. James Episcopal Cathedral. The unreinforced masonry structure was condemned in the 1980’s due to seismic instability. The design intent was to create a building which would be timeless in appearance and complement the church.
Exhibiting a simple yet elegant design, the Parish Hall is an introverted building where the main hall opens up to the courtyard shared with the church. Skylights illuminate much of the interior space including the two-story congregational hall with an eye-catching beam-and-truss ceiling and striking two-story stained-glass window depicting the cross.
The structure provides space for a fully furnished library, meeting rooms, a food and clothing distribution center, child-care center and playground, parish administrative offices and a commercial kitchen. The large basement is dedicated to youth and scouting activities and also houses the St. James’ food pantry.
