St. Cecilia Catholic Community Parish Hall

The new Parish Event Center, Marian Hall, at St. Cecilia Catholic Community, designed by Architecture Joyce Owens, sits adjacent to the old sanctuary and is very visible from the street. The design of the new Center responds to the simplicity of the charming mid-century existing sanctuary (designed in 1966 by Architect Edgar Wilson) but is clearly positioned, inside and out, in the 20th century. With a simple and unadorned style and deep overhangs that are undeniably fresh and new, it is in sharp contrast to the lavish and ornate Catholic churches of the past. 

The hall incorporates a new, modern style with complimentary large roofs, a distinct entry, and outdoor gathering areas. 

The large expanses of glass provide transparency and lightness that allow outside onlookers to observe the activity inside and intentionally welcomes the community inward. The porte-cochere and tall wooden entry doors open upon a generous vestibule where parishioners and guests are greeted with high ceilings, a wall of stained glass tailored specifical to the space, a hand-blown glass chandelier, and an artist-designed donor appreciation sculpture installation.

The main event hall captures the openness of an outdoor pavilion. The large windows all-around and clerestory windows above keep the space filled with daylight while articulating the important connection to the sky, lush green landscaping and the outdoor amenities. Side doors open onto a large covered outdoor area and Celebration Courtyard, complete with personalized pavers and specially designed benches that provide attendants with outdoor gathering opportunities. The hall was designed to accommodate 350 people. 

Additionally, deployable partition walls can transform the even hall for smaller gatherings and potentially simultaneous events, along with a fully accommodated professional kitchen, elevated stage, projection screen and sound systems help make Marin Hall an ideal space for the parish to host events, large and small, for years to come. 

Reddy, Bob. “New Parish Hall dedicated and blessed in Fort Myers.” Florida Catholic, 2019.