The Sanctuary

Show Description

Oakland, CA

This exciting church-conversion project brings another layer to the idea of home being a sacred space. Gunkel Architecture was able to leverage historic design elements to create a dynamic balance between the new and the old. We incorporated a range of green amenities including solar panels, electric vehicle charging stations and bike parking. Of course, the most substantial green feature is the creative reuse of a neighborhood icon.

The six, spacious, family-friendly condos each have off-street parking. Careful incorporation of mezzanines, custom doors designed with the originals in mind and enhancement of the exterior with natural stone and paint, opens a new chapter in this building’s life. This was all accomplished without expansion of the building envelope. A community balcony and deck round out the functional use of every inch of exterior and interior space in the original church, multipurpose room and gym.