Jury comments: This memorial and community center is a beautiful piece of architecture in its own right, and it also fulfills a social role by transforming and elevating the spot where two children once were brutally murdered in their home. The modulation of light at various times of day appears to embody the children’s souls. The creation of space, the balance of scale and detail, and meticulous execution are impressive. Modest and quiet, this work has deep aesthetic and emotional resonance. Quite simply, the center is a labor of love, and it should be noted that the submitting architect initiated the project, created the design, raised the funds, and coordinated the construction. Built over a three year period, he collaborated with the children’s extended family, their friends, a local girl’s school, the mayor of the town, as well as foreign emissaries from the US and Europe. This building is architecture fulfilling its highest potential, and it touches the heart.
Client: Dominican Sisters of the Presentation
Consultants: Walter Zepeda; Ted Dingly; Ronny Pickler; Richard Wood; Contractors: Carlos Rodriguez, Ermin Varela, Edwing Morales , Brigido Lopez; Craftsman: Chris Sancomb (Medallions)
