Nestled in the heart of the vibrant SoHo and northern Little Italy districts of lower Manhattan stands the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, a revered National Historic Landmark. Founded in 1809, New York’s first cathedral remains a cherished treasure for the Archdiocese of New York and people worldwide. When Monsignor Donald Sakano embarked on the restoration of this sacred gem, he enlisted Liturgical Design Consultant Rolf Rohn to assess the historic space and guide the project forward.
Rolf conducted an exhaustive evaluation, employing advanced high-definition architectural scans to reveal hidden details imperceptible to the naked eye. These scans provided a meticulous blueprint, identifying structural issues and conditions crucial for preparing the basilica for its next two centuries.
The cathedral renovation began where it mattered most—starting from the altar outward: a stunning replica of the Neo-Gothic style altar replaced the worn original, becoming the centerpiece of the interior. The project unfolded as a comprehensive master plan, meticulously addressing liturgical requirements, functional needs, and the stringent guidelines of New York City's Landmarks Preservation Commission.
It encompassed the restoration of flooring, walls, vaulted ceilings, intricate cast architectural elements, lighting, and extensive stained glass Gothic windows, including the installation of new protective glass. Additionally, all statuary, the early 1800s carved reredos, and Stations of the Cross were restored, and a dedicated chapel to Our Lady of Altagracia was created, transforming the former sacristy area.
Designs were crafted and executed for a revitalized sanctuary, sacristy, chapel, and gathering space. A new tabernacle throne harmonized with the altar, while the reintroduced tabernacle and tester faithfully replicated their early 19th-century forms. The late 1800s baptismal font underwent a complete restoration to align seamlessly with other liturgical furnishings.
Rolf’s vision extended beyond the basilica’s interior; he innovatively adapted preliminary plans to revive the tradition of Christian burial with the introduction of columbaria in the catacombs beneath the church. His vision enhanced the environment to echo the upper cathedral area and expanded interment opportunities by incorporating niches around existing family crypts, thereby increasing potential revenue streams for the basilica.
Restoring a landmark spanning two centuries presented numerous surprises and challenges. Rolf provided unparalleled guidance, assembling multidisciplinary teams that merged cutting-edge technology with traditional artistry. Today, the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral stands as a renewed testament of faith—a liturgically correct representation of our Catholic beliefs with a legacy for future generations.
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