Auditorium

The auditorium at the General House of the Society of Christian Doctrine was given the name Sacred Auditorium by Atelier Maison, the architecture firm responsible for its renovation. Paula Agius Vadalà and Katja Abela Cassar were the architects behind this project.

Atelier Maison’s design concept for the auditorium is elegantly straightforward: they aimed to create the appearance of a stone-built auditorium, establishing a timeless and grounded atmosphere. They achieved this by using honey-colored travertine, which has a natural grain that adds visual interest when seen up close. They skillfully integrated the stage, doors, and speakers into the stone panels, ensuring there were no distracting elements.

The previous plain ceiling of the auditorium was completely transformed into a striking architectural feature. The new suspended ceiling has a gentle curve that reminds people of a traditional baldacchino and draws their attention toward the end of the room, which has many meanings.

On a spiritual level, people’s eyes are drawn to a cross made of light shining through blue drapes. But the most profound and spiritual experience happens when the wall at the end of the room opens to reveal a wax figure of St George Preca lying down and the chapel beyond.

St George Preca’s presence adds a spiritual touch to both spaces. While the auditorium, on its own, has a simple, modern look, having the saint’s presence makes it feel timeless and suitable for all kinds of events, from secular ones to moments of prayer and reflection.