Holy Ground: Designing a Monastery for Life and Legacy
A Shared Collaboration: The Monastery of St. Clare
Travelers Rest, SC — Nestled in the quiet serenity of Travelers Rest, South Carolina, the Monastery of St. Clare stands as a testament to thoughtful design, enduring relationships, and sacred purpose. Completed in 2008 after four years of collaboration, this 25,285-square-foot sanctuary is more than just a building—it’s a spiritual home for the nuns residing at Poor St. Clare’s and a project that continues to hold deep meaning for everyone involved.
“This project is not about us, it’s about them,” says Louis Batson, reflecting on the heart of the work.
From the beginning, Batson Associates approached the project with reverence. The team met monthly with the entire community for nearly a year, ensuring every decision was made together. As Sister Nancy recalls,
“I think that the architects have earned a crown in heaven by meeting once a month for almost a year with the whole community and we made decisions together.”
The result is a space that supports the Sisters’ way of life—both spiritually and practically. With 16 bedrooms, two interior courtyards, and large windows that invite nature into every room, the Monastery is designed for peace, prayer, and aging in place.
“We intentionally made decisions about the design of this building that would enable us to stay here as we age for as long as we can,” shares Sister Nancy.
Accessibility was a key consideration. As Louis explains,
“We had serious discussions about ‘do all the rooms need to be accessible?’ And the answer is yes, they need to be such that you can spend your final day whenever it occurs, right here.”
At the heart of the Monastery is the ovoid-shaped chapel—a space that embodies both beauty and function.
“The chapel is designed so that those who are unable to come in and worship and participate with the rest of the community, by simply opening a door, a simple solution, that makes their life fulfilled all the way until the end of life,” says Louis.
The chapel is where the Sisters gather six times a day for prayer and Eucharist.
“In the chapel, we gather to pray together... we begin our day there in the morning,” says Sister Nancy.
“I’ve heard people say that when they walk in, the shape of it helps them feel as though they are being embraced,” reflects Sister Kathy.
The Monastery’s layout supports both community and solitude. Private quarters are tucked away from public areas, allowing for quiet reflection and prayer.
“Our bedrooms are good sized and in a different part of the building where it’s quieter,” Sister Nancy explains.
“Silence is important to our life... the building helps,” adds Sister Kathy.
Even after the project’s completion, the relationship between Batson Associates and the Sisters has remained strong.
“They were wonderful to work with, and to this day we still show up regularly just to see what can we help you with,” says Louis.
“Even now, 15 years later... one of the first people we call is Louis Batson,” Sister Kathy adds.
This enduring connection speaks to the spirit of the project—a collaboration rooted in respect, care, and shared purpose.
“It pretty much designed itself,” Louis reflects. “I’d love to think it was our creativity that made it happen but, there had to be some prayerful thought on their part.”
“It’s a special place,” Louis concludes.
And indeed, it is.
About Batson Associates
Established in 1981, Batson Associates is an architecture and interior design firm focused on Institutional project types that deliver environments for healing, wellness, education, and aging. The Greenville, SC based firm works with clients throughout the Southeast. Stay connected with Batson Associates for more associate highlights, project updates, and industry insights by following us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. For more information about our work or to discuss how we can help with your next project, please contact us at Batson Associates. Let's build the future together.
