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| USCCB Residence Chapel |
When we think of Gothic architecture, we envision soaring towers, flying buttresses, dramatic pointed arches, vaulted ceilings, expansive interiors, and magnificent stained glass windows. These elements often find their way into our work, as seen in one of our recent projects—the Gothic-style Chapel at the Good Shepherd Home of the Aged in Wheeling, West Virginia. For this project, we integrated many of those iconic Gothic features into the liturgical design, creating an environment that offered both inspiration and comfort to the residents, while ensuring harmony with the building's architecture.
We designed all the liturgical furniture, appointments, and statuary to align with the Gothic aesthetic, carefully considering scale, permanence, simplicity, and functionality. The altar, ambo, tabernacle throne, and statue pedestals for the retouched Holy Family were crafted from White Carrara and Rosso Impero marble, while the Stations of the Cross were restored. Recognizing the primary worshippers—elderly residents—we incorporated large, accessible furniture pieces, ADA-compliant access to the sanctuary, a designated space for the Oil of the Sick, and special areas for the Book of Memory and Book of Intentions.
Currently, we're working on the Gothic-style Immaculate Conception Church in Washington, PA. For this project, we designed a new altar and ambo to match the marble and style of the existing raredos, as well as a complementary flooring pattern. We also restored the Stations of the Cross and a low-relief carving behind the crucifix in the sanctuary, all in colors that enhance the interior, and refurbished the baptismal font. The architect praised the outcome: "Let me begin by stating that Rohn's work at the church turned out beautiful. The altar, ambo, credence table, and Stations are truly works of art."
Over the years, we’ve custom-designed countless Gothic-inspired liturgical pieces to blend seamlessly with various environments. Notable projects include the wood liturgical furniture for the Chapel of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, TX; the marble furnishings for St. Paul’s Cathedral in Worcester, MA; liturgical furniture and appointments for the Basilica of St. Mary of the Assumption in Marietta, OH; and the USCCB Residence Chapel in Washington, DC.
The resurgence of Neo-Gothic architecture in the 21st century speaks to the enduring beauty and spiritual resonance of these timeless elements. Whether in the form of a newly designed chapel or the restoration of historical pieces, our work ensures that Gothic architecture continues to inspire and serve the faithful. Through careful design, craftsmanship, and attention to the needs of each community, we remain committed to creating sacred environments that honor tradition while fostering a sense of peace and reverence for generations to come.
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| USCCB Residence Chapel |
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