St. Hilda’s House Convent

The new convent for the Community of the Holy Spirit in upper Manhattan is designed to inspire quiet contemplation, both individually and collectively, for a monastic community of women in the Episcopal church. The inherent spiritual and philosophical underpinnings of their Order mandate a great respect for the natural world and a careful approach to living lightly within it.

Embracing tradition and modernity in equal measure, the Convent makes a strong statement about living graciously in simple surroundings. The building functions as a place of spiritual reflection, worship, and outreach, as well as a home. Throughout materials that celebrate nature and craft make tangible the Sisters’ commitment to the environment. Sustainable measures include two green roofs, a solar hot water heater, rainwater collection, abundant natural ventilation, a tight building envelope, and carefully sourced finishes. While modest in scale, the Convent makes incredibly efficient use of its site while simultaneously creating a surprising experience of both intimacy and appropriate grandeur in its ceremonial and ecclesiastical spaces.