Modernist Sanctuaries: A Driving Tour of Albuquerque’s Mid-Century Churches
Albuquerque’s mid-century architecture is unique for its bold lines, innovative designs, and the blend of traditional and futuristic styles. Among the most striking examples are the city’s religious sanctuaries—churches that stand as testaments to Modernist creativity. These structures not only reflect the spiritual aspirations of their time but also embody some of the most sophisticated and elegant architectural designs produced by the city’s most celebrated architects. From sweeping, expressionistic forms to more restrained yet equally impactful ones, these churches are more than places of worship; they are architectural milestones that continue to inspire admiration and conversation.
In this self-guided driving tour, we’ll explore five of Albuquerque’s most iconic mid-century churches, each leaving an indelible mark on the city’s architectural landscape. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or enjoy discovering the city’s hidden gems, this tour invites you to experience the bold beauty of Albuquerque’s Modernist religious structures. So, hop in the car and get ready to journey through some of the most awe-inspiring buildings in town!
God’s House Church (Hoffmantown Baptist Church)
2335 Wyoming Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM
Dates of Construction: 1950-1965
Architects: Flatow, Moore, Bryan, and Schaefer (Rusty Schaffer, designer)
Nestled in the Northeast Heights of Albuquerque, God’s House Church—formerly Hoffmantown Baptist Church—stands as a striking example of mid-century Modernist architecture. Originally founded in 1953, Hoffmantown Baptist grew from a small chapel to a sprawling campus designed by the architectural firm Flatow, Moore, Bryan, and Schaefer. The new sanctuary, completed in 1965, is an imposing 40,000+ square foot building with a capacity of nearly 1,400 seats, symbolizing the congregation’s growing presence in the community.
The church’s main sanctuary features a bold, rectangular design with a mix of brick and pre-cast concrete. Its north elevation is particularly striking, with towering inverted dome members set against a backdrop of multi-colored mosaic tiles and narrow punched openings for stained glass. The tapered concrete piers form a dramatic entrance, while the canopy of pre-cast concrete on the east elevation creates a continuous, sleek look. These elements reflect the Modernist trend of blending form and function while celebrating geometric shapes and textures.
A standout feature of the church is its distinctive bell tower, which rises over the northeast corner of the building, adding verticality to the structure. Inside, the church’s design continues to impress with its openness and elegance, incorporating large windows and allowing natural light to filter through, enhancing the spiritual experience.
Over the years, as Albuquerque’s population expanded, so did the congregation, and by the late 1980s, Hoffmantown Baptist Church had outgrown its facilities. The church relocated further north to accommodate more space and ample parking for its growing members. However, its architectural legacy remains, a testament to the vision of the architects and the vibrant community it served.
Congregation B’nai Israel
4401 Indian School Rd. NE, Albuquerque, NM
Date of Construction: 1970
Architect: George Wynn
The Congregation B’nai Israel synagogue is an architectural marvel in Albuquerque. Completed in 1970 and designed by architect George Wynn, this modern synagogue complex combines one- and two-story brick buildings, with the crowning feature being its striking, circular folded plate roof. The roof itself is a structural wonder, supported by wood arches that rest on tapered wood columns. These columns, separate from the building’s dark brick walls, create an open, airy feel around the central space.
The walls rise just below the connection between the arches and columns, capped with a masonry band that adds a sense of unity to the design. Continuous, angled windows wrap around the roof, providing ample natural light to the interior. A skylight at the top of the roof further enhances the sense of openness and illumination. The synagogue’s main entrance is sheltered by a low overhang with tall stucco fascia, creating a welcoming entryway framed by two sets of glazed wood doors.
The design of Congregation B’nai Israel is a masterclass in modern religious architecture, combining simplicity and elegance with structural ingenuity. Its bold forms and open spaces make it not just a house of worship but a visual landmark in Albuquerque’s architectural landscape.
Congregation B’nai Israel was completed in 1970 and designed by architect George Wynn.
St. Paul Lutheran Church
1100 Indian School Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM
Date of Construction: 1971
Architects: Flatow and Moore
Perched above downtown Albuquerque, St. Paul Lutheran Church stands as a striking example of Expressionist Modernism, with a sanctuary that draws the eye both for its dramatic form and thoughtful design. Built in 1971 by renowned architects Flatow and Moore, this three-sided structure features sweeping catenary arches that curve upward, creating a sense of lightness and movement. At the west altar end of the building, these arches rise to form tall, cross-framed openings—an iconic detail that adds both beauty and symbolism to the design.
The east elevation continues the building’s play with form, featuring stuccoed recesses and a dramatic focal point: a stained glass window beneath a narrow brick fin wall. A projecting roof scupper is set within this recess, adding visual depth and texture to the composition. The main entry to the sanctuary is marked by a short vestibule with narrow brick walls framing slender stained glass windows. The wooden double doors, adorned with a carved cross, offer a welcoming entry to the sacred space beyond.
From its striking catenary arches to its purposeful interplay of materials and light, St. Paul Lutheran Church remains a standout piece of Modernist architecture in Albuquerque.
Artist Max Chavez carved all the interior and exterior woodwork. If you are interested in learning more, click here.
St Paul Lutheran Church was built in 1971 by architects Flatow and Moore.
St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church
211 Jefferson St. NE, Albuquerque, NM
Date of Construction: 1967-68
Architect: John Reed
Nestled in the heart of Albuquerque, St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church stands as a striking example of Modernist architecture. Completed in 1968, the sanctuary building is the centerpiece of a three-building complex that showcases the evolution of the church’s campus. While the original chapel was designed in 1951 by George Pearl, it’s the 1968 sanctuary by architect John Reed that truly captures attention.
The sanctuary’s distinctive features are hard to miss. The structure is defined by precast concrete panels and unique Y-shaped roof members set at varying heights, giving it an almost sculptural feel. These roof members are supported by curved end panels, adding depth and drama to the design. The building’s modernity is emphasized with staggered panels and tall, stacked stained-glass windows facing north and south, allowing natural light to flood the interior. The two full-height masonry crosses, placed in the second and fourth bays, are focal points, giving the design both visual and spiritual significance.
The south elevation is equally dramatic, with an angled wall that stretches the length of the chapel, its vertical windows allowing for a play of light and shadow. From its innovative use of materials to its clean, geometric forms, the 1968 chapel remains a key example of how Modernist design can bring together function and beauty.
This is a church that looks towards the future while respecting its roots, creating a dynamic and welcoming space for both worship and community.
St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church; 1968 sanctuary by architect John Reed.
Albuquerque’s rich tapestry of Modernist architecture is not just a testament to its bold design ethos, but a reflection of the city’s growth and evolving identity in the mid-20th century. From the iconic curves of St. Paul Lutheran Church to the dramatic lines of Congregation B’nai Israel, each building tells a unique story of creativity, functionality, and vision. These structures showcase how Modernism can merge form and faith, turning everyday spaces into works of art.
To truly experience the beauty and innovation of Albuquerque’s Modernist landmarks, we encourage you to take a self-guided driving tour. Wander through the city’s stunning architectural gems, soaking in the sleek, angular forms and thoughtful designs that have stood the test of time. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or just someone who appreciates beautiful buildings, this tour offers a deeper understanding of Albuquerque’s mid-century architectural heritage.
So, save this page and hit the road—it’s time to see the city in a new light!