The Sacred Heart Cathedral, constructed in Knoxville, Tennessee, USA, stands out as an impressive structure showcasing the aesthetic beauty and durability of marble. Designed by McCrery Architects, based in Washington, D.C., the 23,100-square-foot cathedral draws inspiration from Baroque and Romanesque architecture, reflecting the “Old World” spirit.
Due to the insistence of the clergy on using marble, the splendor of the stone is highlighted in every part of the cathedral, from the floors to the columns. In collaboration with stone supplier Rugo Stone, more than 12 types of Italian marble were selected, including Bianco Carrara, Calacatta Borghini, Giallo Siena Brocatello, Rosso Francia Languedoc, and Statuario Michelangelo.
These stones, with their different colors and vein patterns, add both elegance and character to the structure. The cathedral features 20 massive marble columns, 10,500 square meters of marble flooring, mosaic panels, altars, a tabernacle, and a baptismal font.
Geometric flooring patterns inspired by the mosaic tradition of Rome’s renowned Cosmati family add visual richness to the space. The marble patterns in the interior design create a carpet-like effect, while the different types of stone used in the columns and liturgical elements harmoniously blend together.
Rugo Stone carried out the application process with great care, while Pedrini Mario Srl in Carrara, Italy, played an important role in the production. The project, which took approximately two years to complete, was awarded the Natural Stone Institute’s Pinnacle Award in 2018. However, the cathedral’s true success is measured by the significant increase in the congregation’s interest and participation since its opening.
Sacred Heart Cathedral stands as a unique example of both traditional and contemporary use of marble, once again demonstrating the power of stone in architecture.
+90 532 585 51 95
+90 532 585 51 95