Transforming problem houses into Dream Homes

Stained Glass in Modern Architecture

Gethsamane Church in Seattle by Olson Kundig. Photo copyright is by Olson Kundig.
Gethsamane Church in Seattle by Olson Kundig. Photo copyright is by Olson Kundig.

Fastcompany.com recently posted about the Gethsemane Church in Seattle by the architects Olson Kundig. It is a thoroughly Modern building. For many, if you say “modern architecture”, the images in their minds are of cold, sterile and emotionless buildings. Yet this Modern church feels warm and comfortable.

One of the reasons for the success of this church is the architect’s embrace of stained glass. The use of stained glass is traditional in the churches of many denominations, but rarely is it’s potential so fully exploited as it is here by Olson Kundig.

The richness which is added by the coloration of the light which saturates the room creates a very distinct atmosphere. The color projected onto the floors and other surfaces of the room adds a further level of detail and decoration to the room.

While having this much stained glass in a residence would be distracting and perhaps inappropriate, some small amount might make a big difference in a hallway, living or dining room. the color created by stained glass is ethereal and almost always evokes joy and wonder. Who wouldn’t want to bring a little joy and wonder to their homes?

Facebooktwitterredditpinterestlinkedinmailby feather