The Project returns to familiar waters to check out Kensington's St. Michael. This is a unique church because, from the outside, it looks almost nothing like a church. The two spires are something of a giveaway, but the remainder of a building isn’t something you’d normally associate with religious architecture. Think of it as the St. Vincent de Paul effect. Hey, that gives me an idea…
Church Project Theorem #9: The Vincent de Paul Effect. So-named for any church that, from the outside, bears no resemblance to what we consider as classic religious architecture. It’s so named for Germantown’s St. Vincent de Paul, which was the first and quintessential example. Why didn’t I bring it up earlier? Eh, I try not to talk about that black hole because the mere mention of it makes my head hurt. Ow, too late.
Actually, St. Michael actually shares a lot in common with St. Vincent, namely, an Italian-Renaissance design. What separates Michael, however, is that decor is much more opulent and detailed, especially the molding. Couple that with a nifty pink and white color scheme, and BANG! You have something magical. The really interesting feature here is the balcony, which starts at the back and actually runs forward along both sides, almost up to the front of the church. Think of a Broadway play, or a theater with stadium seating. It’s a really cool effect, and the first one we’ve seen.
Sure, the church isn’t very large, but you'll be hard-pressed to find one that's more classically beautiful.
Size Rating: 7 out of 10
Ornamentation Rating: 8 out of 10
Overall Design Rating: 8 out of 10 crosses
