St. Lawrence Catholic Church Narthex and Entry Court Addition

The parish of St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Alexandria, Virginia, sought a larger gathering space at the entrance to their church. Working with the geometry of the existing church, O’Brien & Keane’s response has provided a new baptistry, new restrooms, and new confessionals that are accessible and in keeping with today’s norms. The core of this expansion project is the spacious Narthex and the welcoming colonnade that forms an entry court. These two elements create abundant and pleasant space for gathering after Mass and other liturgical celebrations, while at the same time marking the entrance to this church with the dignity deserving of a house of worship.

Photography: Prakash Patel