Pueblo Serena Church is the local place of worship in Monterrey, Mexico. But while such a description might summon to mind humble gabled roofs and quaint steeples, Pueblo Serena Church is a modernist architectural icon.
The building looks unlike any traditional church. Firstly, its walls are whitewashed and smooth, far from the traditional brick that makes up many cathedrals. Then, the various sections of the church, like the apse and the nave, are designed as abstract volumes that protrude from the building at odd angles.
This being said, the church still maintains many of the traditional religious accouterments of Catholicism. For instance, though obtusely angled, Pueblo Serena Church has a steeple with a bell. Further, inside the church is a cross shaped slice that allows a crucificial light to glow through it.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Abstract Modernist Architecture
- Explore new and unique ways to design buildings that break away from traditional norms, all while maintaining their functionality.
- Innovative Religious Spaces
- Experiment with novel design elements to create unconventional yet functional religious spaces that still adhere to the traditional religious accouterments.
- Cultural Iconic Structures
- Create structures that become symbolic landmarks for communities that represent their unique cultural identity and values.
Where This Applies
- Architecture
- Architecture firms can pioneer a new architectural style that breaks away from traditional religious buildings while keeping with their religious functions.
- Religious Organizations
- Religious organizations can look to update their traditional places of worship to reflect a more modern interpretation of their faith and values.
- Tourism
- This unique architecture provides an opportunity to create tourist attractions and experiences that celebrate art and design as a means of experiencing the local culture.
