Schindler / Bethlehem Baptist

Bethlehem Baptist Church (1944) by R.M. Schindler

The client was a small AfricanAmerican congregation, which is interesting considering the racial attitudes during this time period.  Not much is known about how the commission came about. This is the only Schindler church that was ever built.  It consists of the main church, a small community center building and an a small older house that was original to the property. 

1944

Source: Architecture of the Sun, by Thomas S. Hines

Faith Build International has taken over the church and has done a lot of clean-up. Their first service was held a week ago. An open house for architect nerds was held the day before their second service. I heard about the event on Steve Wallet's blog.

This is the church in September, 2013.  In 2009 the building was declared a Historic-Cultural Monument per the City of Los Angeles.  The documentation can be found here. 

Source: Maison Orion

Source: Architecture of the Sun, by Thomas S. Hines

The space above is for the choir.  The contemporary lighting is by Brendan Ravenhill. 

Source: Architecture of the Sun, by Thomas S. Hines

Pastor Melvin Ashley of the Faith Build International said it was tricky for him to chose which side of the "L" shaped sanctuary to speak to during his first service. 

Pastor Melvin Ashley and Church Administrator Capri Blount answered questions about the church. They were very sweet and plan to do a lot more in terms of restoring this long-neglected architectural landmark.  They said they could use some help with the project, financial or otherwise. 

The original Schindler design included elements that were supposed to be built when the commissioning congregation could afford it. That congregation sold the building in 1975. An outdoor stage, additional buildings, and a second story terrace were never realized.