Portico transforms an existing secondary entrance into a primary entrance through the following design interventions which aid in wayfinding, accessibility and conveying Catholic theology:
+ Light Monitor that reaches thirty feet above the floor of the vestibule. During the day, the monitor illuminates the vestibule with diffuse north light. At night, recessed light coves illuminate from within, creating a beacon of light announcing the Cathedral’s presence as a spiritual guiding light for First Hill and City at large.
+ Entry Doors featuring projecting fins crafted from naval brass, arrayed in a pattern which references the scallop shell, an icon traditionally associated with Saint James. The project title, Portico, is a reference to the Pórtico de la Gloria, the main entry gate to Santiago de Compostela Cathedral in Galicia, Spain.
+ Holy Water Stoup that allows multiple visitors to bless themselves simultaneously as a collective spiritual gesture. Holy water is a central part of Catholic faith as it alludes to the Sacrament of Baptism upon entry to the Cathedral. Above the stoup is an inscription from the Gospel of Luke about a journey in faith.
Client Saint James Cathedral
Design Gerrick Office
Construction Ferguson Construction
Structural Engineering Swenson Say Faget
Lighting Design Studio Lumen
Building Envelope RDH
Accessibility Studio Pacifica
Cathedral Architect Stephen Lee
Structural Steel Iron Star Welding
Metal Fabrication Decorative Metal Arts
Woodwork OB Williams
Windows Dynamic Fenestration
Glazing Pacific Glass and Door
Stone Fabrication Lambert Stoneworks
Inscription Artwork Robbie Schneider
Electrical Sequoyah Electric
Photography Kevin Scott
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