I have a need to escape to Rome to recharge my architectural batteries in the eternal city. Ever since my first trip there as a student in the 60’s I sit in awe of the Pantheon, two millenniums in existence and still capturing the worlds attention. Compare that to the Minneapolis Metrodome, which was demolished after only 35 years of service.
But my treasured visit each trip is to two small oval chapels a few blocks apart and but a few years separated in their creation. San Carlo alla Quatro Fontana by the architect Borromini’s is an example of the struggle for light in a tight urban fabric. Borromini sculpts an evocative vertical room with skill while constrained in budget.
San Andrea en Quirinal by the architect Bernini is by comparison gilded and ornate. With the finances of the Pope to support him he gives us a glittering space for somber reflection. Arch rivals, these two architects in the late renaissance and early baroque period demonstrate the potential in chapel design.
Across town in Piazza Navona they duel again where Bernini’s Quatro Fiume fountain appears to repel the adjacent Santa Agnacia facade by Borromini. The Piazza is my wife’s favorite place to sit with a cappuccino, so I think I’ll join her and contemplate their confrontation.
Dale Mulfinger is SALA's renowned Cabinologist and is featured in the July issue of Minnesota Monthly magazine. If you'd like to take a look at more of Dale's clever design solutions, visit his profile page! Or if you'd like to peruse more articles of Dale's on the SALA Blog, READ ON!