Designed by Finnish American architect Eero Saarinen, the MIT Chapel was dedicated along with Saarinen’s Kresge Auditorium in May of 1955. The Chapel serves as a non-denominational gathering place for the MIT community, offering space for worship, meditation, and private ceremonies. The renewal of the Chapel restored this iconic example of mid-twentieth century modern architecture.

During the renewal process, the stained glass walls were repaired, restored, and protected, and the spire and bell tower were removed temporarily to allow the roof to be replaced. Additional exterior work included brick repair and repointing, and the rebuilding of the central skylight. The rebuilt moat incorporates a new filtration system and design elements to prevent water leakage. This work restored the beauty of the moat, which allows a soft secondary light to fill the Chapel through openings at the base of the walls. Inside the Chapel, its travertine floors were upgraded and renewed, its interior brick cleaned, wood surfaces refinished as needed, and new railings were added to the organ loft. Major systems such as HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection were replaced or upgraded as needed.

Now fully renewed, the Chapel is better able to serve the community.