CREJ - Journal

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74 / BUILDING DIALOGUE / MARCH 2015
T here is a reason that the Assumption of
the Theotokos Greek Orthodox Cathe-
dral in Denver metropolitan area stands
out. With its large, golden dome, it is one
of the most recognizable buildings in the city.
Inside, opulent colors and distinctive traditional
iconography embody many of the fundamental
insights of Orthodoxy and are designed to appeal
to the senses as well as the mind. The distinctive
art and architecture are intentional and designed
to enhance the worship experience by connecting
heaven, represented by the dome, and Earth, repre-
sented by the nave of the church. Daily tours at the
Orthodox Cathedral serve to educate visitors about
the significance of art and architecture unique to Or-
thodox churches, and how they engage all of the sens-
es in the worship experience.
With a community that began in Denver more than
100 years ago as a spiritual haven for Greek immi-
grants, today the cathedral is a center of multicultural
activity. For the past 50 years, the cathedral has hosted
a Greek Festival – open to the public – featuring food,
dance and song celebrating Greek traditions.
In 2011, Eidos Architects began working with the pa-
rishioners to develop a master plan for the cathedral.
The primary focus of the master plan was expansion
of the campus to include a new, smaller chapel to help
emphasize and enhance the sense of community in
worship.
Just after Easter in 2014, Krische Construction broke
ground on the new chapel as well as entry and class-
rooms. The construction was completed in time for
dedication of the chapel in October, and interior ico-
nography is expected to be finished in 2015 by special
artisans. During construction, work was scaled down
periodically to accommodate special functions such as
weddings and funerals, as well as the Greek Festival
in June.
Parishioners had some concerns going into con-
struction about safe access to the cathedral and ad-
Karen
Peterson
Project
Development
Manager,
Krische
Construction