First Christian Church (originally the Tabernacle Church of Christ)

Eliel Saarinen
1942



The front facade


This church marks the beginning of an era in Columbus, followed by invitations to some of the most prominent modern architects to design buildings for this architecture-conscious city.
 

Saarinen combines simple forms with asymmetry, both in the facade and interior.



 

The east side and the tower side
 

The classrooms with connecting bridge to the main building



 

Under the bridge with the decorated pilotis



 

The simple interior with off-center cross and decorative organ grill





Interior details such as light fixtures, screen, and furniture were designed by Eliel's son Eero and Charles Eames. Eliel's wife Loja wove the Sermon on the Mount tapestry on the side of the altar opposite the organ.

See also Index for additional works by Eliel Saarinen.


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© 2005 Mary Ann Sullivan. I have photographed (on site), scanned, and manipulated all the images on these pages. Please feel free to use them for personal or educational purposes. They are not available for commercial purposes.

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