To Build for the Heavens in Modern Times, Play With the Elements

As visitors enter the Fish Interfaith Center at Chapman U., they glimpse the Stellar Score fountain in a courtyard behind the building. See more pictures of the building in a Chronicle slide show. (Photo by Pauline Lubens)

The current issue of The Chronicle features a story about Chapman University’s Fish Interfaith Center. The building was designed to feel like sacred space without relying on the symbols of any particular religion, writes Beckie Supiano. Instead, the center uses light, water, nature, and elements to lift people up or bring the heavens down. The result is an unconventional worship space, with colorful windows, falling water, floating walls, and few right angles.

The center is also versatile. Its two chapels can be arranged to suit the needs of a host of different religious groups on the campus. Its front patio has outlets to accommodate live music. And the “garden of the senses” and water fountain behind the building provide a place for students to reflect quietly — or study.