A Dream Realized in Concrete

Designed by the renowned architectural firm of Philip Johnson/Alan Ritchie, the Sufism Reoriented Sanctuary in Walnut Creek, CA is a cluster of concrete domes surrounding a larger central dome. The larger dome, or Prayer Hall, is bathed in sunlight by a central occulus. The curved concrete was formed to precise tolerances to receive pre-radiused marble cladding. Much of  the administration, education and gathering space is subterranean to allow space for contemplative gardens and art work on the ground level and a minimized footprint.