During the holidays, I find myself drawn into churches. I am not a churchgoer in the traditional sense, but these spaces appeal to me as a showcase of humanity’s highest architectural ambitions. There, under the grand ceilings, in the special quiet among the pews, one can’t help but feel a sense of awe.
In the Bay Area, the sacred has inspired some breathtaking buildings in a wonderfully eclectic pastiche of styles.
Here are 10 churches worth a pilgrimage for their spectacular design alone. All are welcoming to visitors.
Swedenborgian Church of San Francisco
This redwood-and-stone sanctuary tucked behind a discreet gate feels like a woodland retreat. Built in 1895 by A. Page Brown, of Ferry Building fame, it has a shingled exterior and hand-carved details that reflect the early Arts and Crafts movement. Inside, filtered light, exposed beams, and a hushed atmosphere conjure a medieval vibe…