His facade consists of more than ten thousand glass panels secured in steel frames. Here, single glazing is used that is held in place with structural silicone, reducing the visual width of the fixtures.
The building itself is an angular, star-shaped structure to alleviate the overly heavy impression of its monolithic. In 1990 it was joined by a steel tower, which is the cathedralās vertical twin.
Especially as a tribute to the car culture of Los Angeles, a parking lot was set up so that you could listen to sermons right from your car with stereo equipment. Thirty-foot doors next to the altar open toward this parking lot, providing ventilation and visual connection between the participants.
The organic blend of the building with its surroundings could be called its greatest architectural feat. Mirrored glass allows only eight percent of the light and ten percent of the solar energy in the space. This made it possible to dispense with a passive ventilation system without any mechanical controls.
Opening window openings, when closed, are virtually indistinguishable from fixed panels, preserving the continuity of the facade. When open, they look like gills sticking out on a smooth surface.
What makes the Crystal Cathedral in Los Angeles a masterpiece architectural design?
The Crystal Cathedral in Los Angeles is considered a masterpiece architectural design for several reasons. Firstly, its unique and innovative use of glass panels for the entire exterior gives it a stunning, ethereal appearance. This modernist approach creates a seamless connection between the interior and the surrounding nature, allowing natural light to flood the space. Secondly, its monumental size and grandeur make it an impressive sight to behold. The high, soaring ceilings and vast open spaces create a sense of awe and transcendence. Finally, the cathedralās symmetrical design and clean lines showcase the principles of modernist architecture, emphasizing simplicity, order, and functionality. Overall, the Crystal Cathedralās combination of innovative use of materials, impressive scale, and modernist aesthetics make it a remarkable architectural achievement.