Chapel of St. Basil

I enjoy coming to Mass here. It’s in a convenient location in my neighborhood, and the chapel size lends itself to a more intimate and focused service. I love the simple yet grand architecture of this building itself. It lends itself to being awe-​inspiring, contemplative, and sets a tone which is good for reflection. The environment and the people definitely lend itself to a nice weekly sabbath.
Even if you aren’t Catholic, I think this building is worth a visit. I love the way the light hits through the ceiling, the golden dome, and the negative space utilized in their rendition of the Stations of the Cross. Just a very peaceful place to visit.

A nice find while exploring off the beaten path in Montrose at the University of St. Thomas campus. It’s a beautiful building, and the inside chapel is serene and perfect for prayer and contemplation.
My favorite part is the medieval labyrinth which can be found in the garden area just outside. Walking the path of the labyrinth symbolizes a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, and it took me around 10 – 15 minutes to follow it all the way to the center. Certainly a good way to contemplate the meaning of faith while walking the narrow path, as they say. If you’re a culture vulture, make this one of your stops.

This is by far the best thing about the University of St. Thomas. I have not been in here for their actual services, but I am simply reviewing it based on the architecture. Every time I drive by I can’t hope but to pause and admire. I enjoyed it so much that I have parked and walked up to explore it’s beauty.

Disclaimer: I’m not Christian, and this review is based on the architecture alone. I’ve never attended a mass/​service here.
I can’t believe no one has reviewed this yet. This is one of the architectural gems of Houston! We always bring out of town visitors here. Honestly, Houston doesn’t offer that much in the way of attractions, but there is some great art and architecture in the city. This is one of those spots.
Philip Johnson (
) designed the chapel as well as the main mall of the University.
He designed the chapel with three basic architectural elements. A sphere for the dome, a cube for the exterior, and a long graphite plane that intersects the two. The cube exterior, is «cut» and opens like a curtain inviting you into a sacred space. It’s really a beautiful concept.
When you enter, you find a 14^th century crucifix at the center, to the right an impressive organ, and a shrine to Mary & her Son, Jesus (VERY interesting, done in the byzantine tradition — read about it!) to your right.
But my favorite part of the chapel is the left wall. Because you enter the church at somewhat of a slant, your eye is immediately drawn to the beautiful glass Cross. The light from the sun makes it glow magnificently. The relief below the cross is a narrative of the Passion, which is also beautiful.
I wish there was a Unilocal category for Awesome Architecture. This really belongs there.