First Baptist Church Sacred Garden

Conceived as a space for use by the church, but also as a gift for the City, the garden explores the idea of sacred space by combining symbolism and themes found in sacred architecture with a rich landscape celebrating God’s creation. In a collaborative effort with Vision Design Collaborative, the garden features three zones – a meditation garden, a labyrinth, and a columbarium. With the existing historic church as a backdrop, the garden seeks to offer a place of serenity and reflection. As a symbol of life’s journey and based on an ancient church tradition, the labyrinth provides the user an opportunity to walk and meditate to gain a deeper spiritual connection. This labyrinth is patterned after the one in Chartres Cathedral in France, the first labyrinth to be construction inside a sacred church space.

The ground plane is accentuated by pathways bounded by beautiful landscaping that move you from one space to another. Along the way you are greeted by the sounds of low tone chimes supporting the mood of the space. Water is also introduced to accentuate special places – a quiet reflecting pool in the columbarium and a waterfall feature with pool in the meditation area to focus your attention away from the busyness of adjacent interstate. Details in the walks, on wall surfaces, and other objects tie into other art deco details from the church. The garden, which was just selected for Asheville’s downtown Urban Trail, was constructed with the help of local artisan/craftsman who provided a wonderful artistic touch.