Inspired by a woven bread basket used for tithes, the design’s geometric windows mimic the basket's interlacing fibers, symbolizing interconnectedness and support, much like the VA’s role in providing care and fostering a supportive community for veterans.
Description
As a symbol of our commitment to veterans and their families, RLF is proud to be actively involved in supporting our heroes, physically and spiritually. One noteworthy project that exemplifies this commitment is the chapel at the VA Orlando in Lake Nona. Designed by RLF, the chapel is a testament to the power of simplicity and symbolism. At its core, the building's architectural inspiration came from a simple yet profound image: a humble bread basket used for tithes. In religious and communal contexts, bread baskets often symbolize sustenance, generosity, and the act of giving. This imagery resonated with the design team, leading them to incorporate these themes into the chapel's structure.
The basket’s woven form became a metaphor for interconnectedness and support, much like how the VA serves veterans by providing care and fostering community. Translating this concept into architecture, the designers used the woven structure as inspiration for the façade, crafting a pattern of geometric windows that mimics the interlacing fibers of a basket. Natural light plays a vital role in shaping the chapel’s environment. Carefully positioned windows and skylights allow sunlight to filter through, creating a calming, ethereal glow. The use of natural materials (concrete, slacked stone, glass and wood), clean lines, and a minimalist aesthetic further contribute to the space’s tranquil environment. This design approach aligns with the VA’s mission to provide a place of solace and spiritual support for veterans, regardless of their religious or spiritual beliefs.
The result is a 4,500-square-foot standalone structure with a striking 40-foot-tall architectural precast concrete nave that rises above the rest of the chapel. The height and simplicity of the nave draw visitors' eyes upward, inviting a sense of upliftment and spiritual reflection. Additionally, the chapel’s design reflects sensitivity to diverse religious traditions. The space is non-denominational, providing an inclusive environment where people of all faiths, as well as those seeking moments of quiet reflection, can feel comfortable. By blending these elements, the chapel aims to be a place of peace, healing, and renewal for those who use it.
The project earned an Eagle Award from the Associated Building and Contractors, Central Florida Chapter, Excellence in Construction program. It is part of the larger 1.6-million-square-foot VA complex serving veterans with a hospital, clinic, nursing home, domiciliary, and Veterans Memorial.
As a symbol of our commitment to veterans and their families, RLF is proud to be actively involved in supporting our heroes, physically and spiritually. One noteworthy project that exemplifies this commitment is the chapel at the VA Orlando in Lake Nona. Designed by RLF, the chapel is a testament to the power of simplicity and symbolism. At its core, the building's architectural inspiration came from a simple yet profound image: a humble bread basket used for tithes. In religious and communal contexts, bread baskets often symbolize sustenance, generosity, and the act of giving. This imagery resonated with the design team, leading them to incorporate these themes into the chapel's structure.
The basket’s woven form became a metaphor for interconnectedness and support, much like how the VA serves veterans by providing care and fostering community. Translating this concept into architecture, the designers used the woven structure as inspiration for the façade, crafting a pattern of geometric windows that mimics the interlacing fibers of a basket. Natural light plays a vital role in shaping the chapel’s environment. Carefully positioned windows and skylights allow sunlight to filter through, creating a calming, ethereal glow. The use of natural materials (concrete, slacked stone, glass and wood), clean lines, and a minimalist aesthetic further contribute to the space’s tranquil environment. This design approach aligns with the VA’s mission to provide a place of solace and spiritual support for veterans, regardless of their religious or spiritual beliefs.
The result is a 4,500-square-foot standalone structure with a striking 40-foot-tall architectural precast concrete nave that rises above the rest of the chapel. The height and simplicity of the nave draw visitors' eyes upward, inviting a sense of upliftment and spiritual reflection. Additionally, the chapel’s design reflects sensitivity to diverse religious traditions. The space is non-denominational, providing an inclusive environment where people of all faiths, as well as those seeking moments of quiet reflection, can feel comfortable. By blending these elements, the chapel aims to be a place of peace, healing, and renewal for those who use it.
The project earned an Eagle Award from the Associated Building and Contractors, Central Florida Chapter, Excellence in Construction program. It is part of the larger 1.6-million-square-foot VA complex serving veterans with a hospital, clinic, nursing home, domiciliary, and Veterans Memorial.
Description
As a symbol of our commitment to veterans and their families, RLF is proud to be actively involved in supporting our heroes, physically and spiritually. One noteworthy project that exemplifies this commitment is the chapel at the VA Orlando in Lake Nona. Designed by RLF, the chapel is a testament to the power of simplicity and symbolism. At its core, the building's architectural inspiration came from a simple yet profound image: a humble bread basket used for tithes. In religious and communal contexts, bread baskets often symbolize sustenance, generosity, and the act of giving. This imagery resonated with the design team, leading them to incorporate these themes into the chapel's structure.
The basket’s woven form became a metaphor for interconnectedness and support, much like how the VA serves veterans by providing care and fostering community. Translating this concept into architecture, the designers used the woven structure as inspiration for the façade, crafting a pattern of geometric windows that mimics the interlacing fibers of a basket. Natural light plays a vital role in shaping the chapel’s environment. Carefully positioned windows and skylights allow sunlight to filter through, creating a calming, ethereal glow. The use of natural materials (concrete, slacked stone, glass and wood), clean lines, and a minimalist aesthetic further contribute to the space’s tranquil environment. This design approach aligns with the VA’s mission to provide a place of solace and spiritual support for veterans, regardless of their religious or spiritual beliefs.
The result is a 4,500-square-foot standalone structure with a striking 40-foot-tall architectural precast concrete nave that rises above the rest of the chapel. The height and simplicity of the nave draw visitors' eyes upward, inviting a sense of upliftment and spiritual reflection. Additionally, the chapel’s design reflects sensitivity to diverse religious traditions. The space is non-denominational, providing an inclusive environment where people of all faiths, as well as those seeking moments of quiet reflection, can feel comfortable. By blending these elements, the chapel aims to be a place of peace, healing, and renewal for those who use it.
The project earned an Eagle Award from the Associated Building and Contractors, Central Florida Chapter, Excellence in Construction program. It is part of the larger 1.6-million-square-foot VA complex serving veterans with a hospital, clinic, nursing home, domiciliary, and Veterans Memorial.
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