The Church is an adaptive reuse project that returns a once-shuttered 1836 Methodist Church back to the community as a vibrant arts center. The reimagined facility features an artists-in-residence program with accommodations, flexible studios, galleries, a resource library, and public garden. The building's exposed wood framing sets up a compelling dialogue between past and present, allowing for the sublime geometry of the original structure to emerge in dramatic relief. Portraits of local artists, painted by our client Eric Fischl, are mounted on the windows, acting as modern versions of stained glass. Surrounded by 22-inch-thick stone masonry walls, the ground floor has been transformed into studio space with new spatial volumes clad in reclaimed wood lath. The main floor, accessed through the restored east façade entry, retains much of the processional sequence from its time as a sanctuary. Upon entry, visitors encounter the dramatic double height exhibition hall beyond, drawing them into the experience. The mezzanine level, a slender plane floating above the main floor, is clad in pale white oak finishes. A glass elevator and minimal steel and wood stairways connect all levels.
Bio Lee H. Skolnick, FAIA is founder and principal of SKOLNICK Architecture + Design Partnership, an internationally renowned firm that synthesizes art, science, and architecture to create memorable and meaningful experiences. In addition to bringing his philosophy-based interpretive design and planning services to a broad range of cultural, institutional, corporate, and private clients, Mr. Skolnick writes, lectures, and teaches extensively.
Other prizes - Design Innovator for the Hamptons, Hamptons Cottages & Gardens Magazine, 2021 - Lifetime Achievement Award for the Long Island chapter of the AIA, 2011 - Presidential Citation for Outstanding Achievement Award, Cooper Union, New York, NY, 2006 - George A. Ledlie Fund Prize, Cooper Union, New York, 1979
