St. Clare of Assisi – New Social Hall and Chapel
Date
2020-2023
Client
St Clare of Assisi Parish
Status
Complete
Location
Surprise, Arizona
Size
44,700 sf
Project description
This new two-story building, complete with a basement, serves as a dynamic extension of the church’s existing campus. The highlight of the first floor is the Social Hall, a welcoming space where parishioners can gather for church events, accessible via a landscaped promenade that seamlessly connects to the church’s main entry.
Adjacent to the Social Hall is a dedicated service kitchen designed exclusively for event support. Surrounding the hall are classrooms tailored for adult religious education, alongside parish offices that support the administrative needs of the church.
On the second floor and basement, additional classrooms cater to the church’s growing educational programs. A key feature is the Perpetual Adoration Chapel, located on the south end of the building, with a striking entry tower that adds a symbolic verticality to the space.
The design thoughtfully mirrors the architectural style of the neighboring church, embracing a Latin-American aesthetic. Key elements include Spanish tile roofing, a prominent tower, and archways that not only enhance the façade but also provide practical shading. The building’s overall form and details maintain harmony with the existing church, creating a cohesive and timeless campus.