The original project for Saint Joseph Abbey’s Christian Life Center was put on hold after the 2016 Louisiana Floods. The center received several inches of water causing millions in damage. This historic renovation updates the retreat center with beautiful accommodations for couples, organizations, and teams while restoring much of the original design. This project qualified for Historic Tax Credits and FEMA funding.
Our design slimmed down the number of rooms in favor of more spacious and functional rooms. Despite the decrease in rooms, the new design increased the amount of accommodations for married couples and offers double occupancy to all rooms – formerly only single occupancy. These improvements also include a new HVAC system allowing temperature control for each room, renovated kitchen and dining space, and updated chapel and gathering spaces. The original roof of the Christian Life Center was highlighted in the renovation and spurred a synergy in design between historic restoration and modern improvements.