“The physical fabric of a building is normally the focus of a restoration, but here it was something intangible—the total sensory immersion that Rothko intended.”
— By Michael J. Lewis, Wall Street Journal
Rothko Chapel
Location
Houston, Texas
Owner
Rothko Chapel
Team
Acoustics and AV - Threshold
Architect - Architecture Research Office (ARO)
MEP Engineers - CEG Engineers
Lighting Design - George Sexton
Size
1,000 square foot Program Center - Phase I
11,700 square feet New Buildings - Phase II
Schedule
Anticipated Completion 2021 - Phase I
The new Program Center supports the Rothko Chapel’s expanding public programming by reducing the frequency of events in the Chapel, strengthening the visitor experience.
A second phase will include: a new meeting house configurable for lecture and music events, an administration building, and outdoor event space.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Rothko Chapel is one of the world’s most celebrated sacred spaces. The Chapel is defined by its 14 monumental Mark Rothko canvases that invite spiritual contemplation and engagement regardless of faith, spiritual or religious background.
Cherished by both art lovers and those seeking a place of stillness and reflection, the Chapel welcomes more than 100,000 visitors from more than 100 countries each year.
Threshold worked with the design team to rejuvenate the existing space with improved acoustics, lighting, and Audio/Visual support for the number of events that occur. It was essential to create a room where you can communicate and also experience silent meditation. All changes were be made with extreme sensitivity to Rothko’s original intent for the space.
The project is hoped to raise visibility for the Chapel and to accommodate future increases in foot traffic, while allowing the site to continue functioning as a quiet sanctuary.
