Children's Chapel for Magnificat House Location & Year: Houston, TX - 1995 Size: 1,200 SF Ordinary materials and simple construction are elevated to a higher purpose in this small space dedicated to the needs of poor and disadvantaged children. Initially the client asked for a small play and worship space for the children whose mothers served time in prison. The resulting design provided that and more. An almost indestructible room, with floors of concrete and plaster walls, changes hourly as the light sifts through the clerestory and plays off of the curved walls. In addition to being rugged, the playhouse can provide a quiet, contemplative chapel space when needed. The structure is supported by two untreated telephone poles. A deep porch overhang provides a shaded outdoor play and gathering area. The interior is lit with natural light from a clerestory created by the two off-set roofs and open to the adjacent play yard. 1996 Design Awards, AIA Houston 1996 Honor Award, TSA Houston Architectural Guide, third edition 2012

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