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Architect:
Carl Bean Brunner, CAAPPR, AIA,
MÉNDEZ,
BRUNNER, BADILLO & ASSOIATES
Style:
Modern with Gothic influences
Date of construction:
December 7, 1954
Physical address:
1290, Ave. Muñoz Rivera corner
Luis A. Ferré Boulevard
Building material:
reinforced concrete
General information:
Santa Maria Reina Church stands out because of the
impressive size and shape of its 4” thick thin shell vaulted
roof The structural designer was engineer Mario Salvadori,
also responsible for the design of the thin shelled roof of
La Perla restaurant at the Hotel La Concha.
Santa María Reina has been distinguished with the
American Institute of Architects, (AIA) Puerto Rico Chapter
‘’Test of Time Award", given to buildings over 25 years’
old who have endured the test of time.
In the interior one can appreciate the elegant use of
marble and beautiful gold toned mosaics work of Italian
mosaic artist Francesco Nagni, installed under the
watchful eye of Count Enrico Galazo, who came from
Rome just for this. Chandeliers, candelabra, crucifixes and
other artifacts fabricated in the Vatican were the exclusive
design of 5 th Ave, NewYork based Tiffany’s & Co.
The inside of the church also reflects the degree of
attention architect Carl B. Brunner dedicated to the
design of the structure evidenced in the details of the
openings, doors and windows and to the quality of light
that bathes the interior thru the elegant stained glass
windows.
The church while still under construction, served as a
shelter for circus animals that were left stranded when
Hurricane Santa Clara hit in 1956.
James Edward
McManus, Obispo
Carl Bean
Brunner Jr.
AIA