Join APT Northeast for a behind the scenes tour of First Presbyterian Church in Stamford, Connecticut. First Presbyterian’s sanctuary has evoked awe in worshippers and visitors since 1958. The building’s unconventional angular form surprised the community, earning it the nickname Fish Church while under construction. A soaring acoustically responsive space, bathed in mottled blue light was what architect Wallace K. Harrison envisioned when he asked the building committee “have you ever thought what it would be like to live in a giant sapphire?” Designated as Stamford Connecticut’s only National Historic Landmark in 2021, today this beautiful space continues to capture hearts and imagination.

The dalle de verre (“glass slab”) of the facade consists of chunks of colored slab glass embedded in mortar, and is prominently featured along three walls. Widely published when it opened, the Fish Church introduced dalle de verre to the United States and monumental modern architecture to Stamford.

The sanctuary, dedicated in 1958, is internationally acclaimed as a masterpiece of modern art and architecture. Inspired by the 13th century Sainte-Chappelle chapel in Paris, architect Wallace K. Harrison succeeded in his intent to impart the emotional impact of a gothic cathedral in a modern American church. Harrison pioneered the use of dalle de verre glass within the thin shell walls. Impact from weathering of the glass panels is the major challenge to the building’s stewardship.

Saturday April 15, 10:00 am – 12:30 pm
Stamford, CT
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