Chapel for the Diocesan Seminary of Plasencia

Renovation Honor Award

Pablo Guillén Llanos

Plasencia, Spain

In an unfinished space of considerable height that had been used as a warehouse for 20 years, the chapel project began with widening the hallway to create better access. The space was highlighted by concrete and stone benches.

The nave has an off-center vault that has cuts to allow access to natural light. The presbytery is located within the remains of the medieval city wall. The material used for the entire work is reddish cement, and the floor is natural stone.

The altar, the seat, and the ambo are three supported natural-stone blocks. Architecture and liturgy converge on the altar as the center of the space. The altarpiece is conceived in a scenographic form by placement of two sculptures and a tabernacle. The cross is freed from the altar to give prominence to the Eucharistic species.

The entire work is resolved with a clear and simple design, using stone and wood. The aim is to create a design that respects the unique style of the building.

Jury Comments

This space is phenomenal and transformative. The liturgical elements fit into the space graciously, while the clerestories have a character of their own. The design is very thoughtful.

Project Team Members

Pablo Guillén Llanos / Principal, Architect
Fernando Zaparaín / Architect
Fermín Antuña / Architect
Eduardo García / Architect
Javier López de Uribe / Architect
Project Consultants
Helidoro Dols Morell
Fernando Cidoncha Pérez
Jacinto Núñez Regodón
Antonio Luis Galan
Javier Domingo de Miguel
Victor Sánchez Barrado
Ana Maria Fabián

Photo Credit / Ruheca – Ruben Hernandez