Chapel at Presbyterian Rio Rancho Medical Center

Hospital chapels have historically been designed as a smaller version of a church with rows of seating facing a raised platform or as a room for an individual to meditate. While either approach is still valid for various reasons, such an approach reduces the ability to embrace diverse faith traditions and create experiences that can go beyond traditional spiritual associations.

The chapel at the Westside Presbyterian Hospital was designed to retain its divine character without the use of religious symbols. Two segregated spaces allow for either a planned group activity or for individual reflection. A textured glass art element establishes the boundary between these spaces. A person who desires a quiet meditative experience can transverse along the narrow curving space and feel isolated from others in the chapel. Art is placed in recessed shadow boxes to accentuate the reflective nature of the space.

A domed ceiling over this space and the circular inlaid carpet creates a boundary line to further emphasize its separation from the rest of the chapel.  Natural daylight cascades from above to provide a connection to the exterior environment and to give visual expression to the spiritual qualities of the space.