St. Barsaumo Church Opening, Toronto
St. Barsaumo Church had its official consecration ceremony on the 30th of August 2015, attended by Church leaders, community leaders, the congregation, and members of the community. It was proud day for all involved on this meaningful project. The construction of a new purpose-built church is the first of its kind in North America for the Syriac Orthodox Church. “As a spiritual and social hub for its congregation, the design of the church had to reflect the rich cultural heritage of the church, the needs of the congregation, and completed within a very limited budget” shares Nadia Tobia, Partner in Charge lead architect of the project while she was a partner with Farrow Partnership Architects.
Located in Toronto, Canada, the St. Barsaumo Church is a new 2,000 sqm. building that includes a 320 capacity sanctuary hall, a multi-purpose hall, 6 class rooms, 2 exterior teaching amphitheaters, administration space , a boardroom and support and service areas.
On the overall architectural approach Nadia Tobia explains “the design of the Church is focused on simplicity of forms and the fluid relationships between spaces. A large dome that spans the width of the church hall, freestanding arched walls and the entrance gathering plaza are the key exterior elements. On the interior, a minimal approach was employed with the play of volumes and natural light to create uplifting and comfort spaces. Transparency of spaces within the interior and exterior has provided visibility and welcoming environment. The design is environmentally responsive; sustainable measures were employed where applicable and allowable within the tight budget.”
Project By: Farrow Partnership Architects
Nadia Tobia’s role: Partner-in-Charge, Design Leader while a partner with Farrow Partnership Architects.
Key architectural team members: Vello Voogjarv, Tenny Vasilyan.
Consultants:Ojdrovic Engineering (structure), John Towle Associats (Civil), Jain and Associates (MEP), Valcoustics (Acoustics), Landinc (Landscape Architects)
Photography: Tom Arban Photography Inc