Three major structures that come to mind when Copley Square is mentioned are: first Trinity Church, second The Boston Public Library and third The John Hancock (arguably in that order). While all are important for different reasons, they are important nonetheless. How is their significance shown through the built environment? I think the answer lies in the amount of open space provided for each. Note how massive the buildings next door to Trinity Church and the Library are. Each parcel of land is completely taken over with a structure. But when it comes to important or sacred spaces, an entire plane is given and carefully designed to provide the visitor with a formal walk into the space.
The change in material in and just around the edges of the square must be emphasized for this brick red begins to also frame the pathway. The flatness/emptiness of the surrounding allows the building to stand on its own and highlights its very existence. While the John Hancock is not only reasonably close to Trinity Church but considerably taller, it reflects the Church and it reflects the open space around the Church- the sky. All of a sudden, your perspective view is completely taken by the “sacred space”
