Emmaus Catholic Church

Lakeway, Texas

Inspired by Fay Jones’ Thorncrown chapel in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, the new 1000 seat sanctuary uses the gothic proportion and an elaborate system of glue laminated structural and decorative arches. The strength of the design comes from the intimate scale of the three nave spaces that merge onto a large hexagonal stone floored sanctuary. Each nave axis ends with a 40’ tall window. The arched window lined vestibule extends across the back of all three nave spaces, with the main nave opening into a large narthex. Extensive use of wood and stone inside all of the spaces simplifies and enriches the worship experience. The baptismal font and tabernacle are at the triangular intersections of the three nave bays, creating an worshipful space within the overall interior volume. The project won a 2003 AIA Merit Award for Interior Architecture.