Saint Thomas More Chapel

Extensive renovations restored this 300-seat chapel, built in 1938, to its original character. Petra’s in-house millshop was heavily involved, including the restoration of 38 pews, custom millwork for the ceiling and walls, and fabrication of many custom pieces, including carvings and gold gilding. The new altar, ambo, prayer alcove, and baptistry all required significant coordination, the use of highly skilled craftspeople, and intricate detailing. The project also included renovations to the adjacent chaplain’s residence, built in 1960.

Years later, Petra was directly selected to provide air conditioning for the 85-year-old chapel and some of the contiguous office space. To accomplish this request, it was necessary to integrate thirteen air handling units and extensive ductwork into the vintage building. Petra’s millshop fabricated custom-made ventilation grates to replicate the wood and color of the existing grates.

Awards:
2009 CBC Project Team Award

2009 CT-ABC Excellence in Construction Award, Special Jury