UST Chapel of St. Basil
Location
Client
Delivery Method
square footage
Description
The Chapel of St. Basil is a focal point on the campus of the University of St. Thomas in Houston’s historic Montrose neighborhood. Designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson, the 70-foot-tall precast structure mixes contrasting colors and textures to achieve its unique profile, such as white plaster, a gold-leaf dome, and a black granite wall measuring 115 feet in length, 57 feet in height, and more than three feet in thickness. Three polished brass bells, symbolizing the Holy Trinity, complete the structure. Inside the chapel walls, natural lighting from a cross-shaped window inspire reflection and prayerfulness, while a sculpted, black royal impala granite altar, 14th-century crucifix, and pews cut from native Texas trees are positioned to welcome visiting congregants.
Awards
Associated Masonry Contractor of Houston | Golden Trowel Award: Honor in Stone, 1999
AGC Houston | APEX Award: Church, 1998
