Sacred Spaces of Northern California Map
Modern architecture profoundly shaped places of worship in Northern California, uniting innovative design, new materials, and a spirit of openness with the evolving needs of diverse communities. Today, these buildings remain vital cultural resources, although many face challenges related to preservation, changing congregational sizes, and relevance in an evolving urban landscape.
Midcentury sacred spaces across the region embody the optimism and experimentation of the era. Architects utilized concrete, glass, and steel to create spiritually uplifting spaces, incorporating dramatic geometric forms, expressive roofs, and luminous interiors that encourage contemplation and community engagement. These buildings frequently serve as “third places” for community life, hosting education, outreach, and social events that extend beyond their sacred functions.
Many sacred spaces now face pressures of deferred maintenance, diminishing congregations, and development threats. Local preservationists and organizations, such as Docomomo-US and Docomomo-US/Northern California, celebrate the importance of documenting and preserving these sites, giving new life to all forms of sacred spaces.
To celebrate our region’s extraordinary collection of sacred spaces, we have created a map of some of our most unique sites. We invite you to help us raise awareness of these Modern sacred spaces. Tag #modernplacesofworship and @docomomo-noca on social media and share the details of your favorite Northern California sacred buildings in the form below!
This map is a volunteer initiative by the Northern California Chapter of Docomomo US. It is not intended as a comprehensive inventory of modernist sacred spaces in Northern California, nor does it constitute an endorsement or determination of historic eligibility for any site shown. Chapter members selected many buildings based on personal interest and appreciation.
Selections from the sacred spaces Map
We have been able to photograph many of the properties on the map, but could use your help! Send us an email if you would be interested in taking some photographs. It’s a fun way to get outside and explore!
Forest Hill Christian Church
“As you’ll find, all of them are beautiful examples of a style of modernist architecture that was designed for the everyman to come together, to heal, and to prosper.” - by Bastiaan de Vries
Read Bastiaan de Vries feature article on Sacred Spaces of Northern California