Some projects are too good to note share, even when they are still works in progress, and one such project is that which McCrery Architects is working on for the Carmelites of Wyoming (more properly known as the Monks of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel). The project in question came to light more than eleven years ago and we are now fortunate to see some of the real world progress being made. As one will see, the Carmelites in question have 'gothic aspirations.' Whenever gothic projects arise, I frequently find myself wondering how they will transpire in reality and I am pleased to see that in the case of this project, we are seeing something more than just pointed arches and windows transpiring into concrete reality; we are also seeing tracery and other classic gothic ornamental details. What's more, we are also seeing the use of natural stone in the project (and if this is an angle that interests you as well, you may want to read about how these Carmelites have taken to this part of the project in Stone World).
Important for a monastery is also its geographic setting, and this particular project rises on over 10,000 acres of rural land, nestled between mountains and creeks, thereby facilitating the monastic vocation.
Just as Rome was not built in a day, projects like this do not happen overnight and LAJ will certainly be interested to keep our eyes on the progress of this monastic oasis in the months and years to come.
