Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels
Los Angeles, USA
2002
Rafael Moneo's Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels (2002) is a deliberate departure from traditional ecclesiastical architecture, designed as a civic and spiritual landmark for a modern metropolis. Its most significant design choice is the radical manipulation of light through vast alabaster panels instead of conventional stained glass. This material choice diffuses the harsh Southern California sun into a serene, mystical glow, creating an introspective atmosphere. The building's complex, non-orthogonal geometry rejects the traditional cruciform plan, instead organizing the space around a dynamic processional route. This circulation path guides the faithful along the perimeter before they enter the nave, creating a gradual transition from the secular city to the sacred interior. The use of architectural concrete for both structure and finish reinforces the cathedral’s monumental and enduring presence.
天使之后主教座堂
美国 洛杉矶
2002年
拉斐尔·莫内欧设计的天使之后主教座堂（2002年）是对传统教会建筑的刻意背离，旨在为一座现代大都市打造一个公民与精神双重地标。其最重要的设计选择，是摒弃传统的彩色玻璃，转而通过大面积的雪花石膏板来对光线进行彻底重塑。这种材料将南加州刺眼的阳光过滤成一种宁静而神秘的光晕，营造出内省的氛围。建筑复杂的非正交几何形态，拒绝了传统的十字形平面，而是围绕一条动态的游行路线来组织空间。这条动线引导信徒在进入主殿前沿周边前行，从而在世俗的城市与神圣的内部之间创造了一个渐进的过渡。建筑混凝土同时作为结构与饰面，强化了主教堂纪念性的、恒久的存在感。