GARDEN GROVE – A pair of prominent Los Angeles architects have been tabbed to lead a dramatic renovation of the famed Crystal Cathedral property, an effort expected to span three years and result in the transformation of an iconic evangelical megachurch made for television into a traditional Catholic house of worship.
“We have a modern building that we can change from evangelical church into a beautiful Catholic cathedral,” said Scott Johnson, a design partner at Johnson Fain who worked with famed architect Philip Johnson on the cathedral’s original design.
The announcement, made by Bishop Kevin Vann at the cathedral during the Diocese of Orange’s annual prayer breakfast Wednesday, comes as details emerge on the future of the building at the sprawling 34-acre campus.
Rios Clemente Hale Studios will oversee designs and development of the campus’ open spaces, including the lawns and cemetery, while Johnson Fain will focus on the renovation of the cathedral, originally completed in 1980.
The Crystal Cathedral property was purchased by the diocese for $57.5 million out of bankruptcy proceedings from Crystal Cathedral Ministries. The diocese plans to spend an additional $53 million on renovations and upgrades to the cathedral and surrounding campus. The glass-paneled church was renamed Christ Cathedral during an ordination Mass in June 2012.
About $29 million has been earmarked for cathedral renovations. Once designs are finalized, the cathedral will close for construction and likely will reopen for services in early 2015.
Both firms assigned to lead the transformation of Christ Cathedral have led high-profile projects.
Rios Clemente Hale Studios designed the Nokia Plaza at L.A. Live and the Grand Park in Los Angeles.
Johnson Fain designed the Transamerica Pyramid in San Francisco and the MGM Tower in Century City.
The two firms were chosen from a pool of 24 architects that responded to the request for project proposals. Four firms submitted conceptual plans for the interior and grounds of the cathedral.
Architects and church officials leading the project said that although the exterior of the glass structure will remain much as it is, the interior likely will undergo an extensive overhaul and reconfiguration – changes necessary to keep in step with the traditions of the Catholic Church.
