New Monastery Provides Contemplative Spaces for Worship

A five-year design and review process culminated in a tranquil new Monastery under construction in Girard, Illinois.  With its rural backdrop of scenic lake, prairie, and farmland, this Farnsworth Group design will be a center of soothing calm, restoration, and contemplation.

The design for the new Monastery of Mary the Queen is reminiscent of the European monasteries of old with added contemporary touches.  The airy, calming color palette reflects the facility’s serenity of purpose and natural materials and textures complement the rural setting.

Cells and novitiate quarters make up much of the square footage, and the facility also includes common living spaces and kitchens as well as dedicated areas for crafts, study, and meditation.  The enclosed courtyard provides an area for gardening and exercise, and the large windows bordering the courtyard present abundant natural light into the interior spaces.  The chapel itself provides a respectful and beautiful space for community worship.