Frey / By-The-Sea

Saint Michael's By-The-Sea Church in Carlsbad, CA by Albert Frey & Robson Chambers (1958)

You'll notice the similarity to the Albert Frey & Robson Chambers designed Tramway Gas Station in Palm Springs. Though, the gas station seems to pointing to the heavens and the church, elsewhere. The architectural icon of Palm Springs was built in 1965--seven years after the church was built.

Source: Palm Springs Historical Society

In regard to the design of the new church, the Architects stated, “We were asked to create an economical church building that would be original in design, permanent in materials, and deeply religious in feeling. In addition, the building was to be planned for a future enlargement to 350 seats, with the Sanctuary and service facilities sized for the ultimate church. The simple, unadorned structure of reinforced concrete block and exposed wood beams reflects the honest strength and serenity of the building. The design elements are created to express the traditional and liturgical requirements of the Church and the character of the historical California Coast-lands.” - Quote from the program of the FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE DEDICATION OF ST. MICHAEL’S CHURCH BY-THE-SEA