Facts

Location  |  San Antonio TX 

Year Completed  |  2003

Type of Project  |  Historical Restoration; New Construction

Services Performed  |  Full Architectural Services

Contractor  |  SpawGlass

Photos  |  Chris Cooper

In association with RRTL Architects

Thoughts

The San Fernando Cathedral is the oldest Catholic Cathedral Sanctuary in the United States and is an iconic landmark in downtown San Antonio. As all old buildings do with age, they start to wear down and deteriorate.  We had the privilege of being selected to restore the church while bringing its infrastructure up to modern standards including new efficient mechanical and electrical systems. Restoring the cathedral properly also meant interpreting the importance of the cathedral’s earlier periods while still allowing the church to serve the needs of contemporary liturgy. The result of this dramatic restoration will allow generations to enjoy this historic landmark for years to come.

Awards

AIA, Interfaith Forum on Religion, Art & Architecture  |  2006 Honor Award (Religious Architecture, Renovation)

San Antonio Downtown Alliance  |  2005 Downtown's Best Award

AIA San Antonio Chapter  |  2005 Honor Award

Preservation Texas  |  2004 Treasures of Texas Historic Rehabilitation

San Antonio Conservation Society  |  2004 Preservation Award

AIA Minnesota  |  2004 Honor Award

San Antonio Masonry Contractors Association  |  2004 Golden Trowel Award

Associated Builders & Contractors, Inc.  |  2003 National Eagle Award - Award of Excellence

Associated Builders & Contractors, Inc. (San Antonio Chapter)  |  2003 Excellence in Construction Award