Swedenborgian Church of San Francisco

In San Francisco’s Pacific Heights, the Swedenborgian Church is a small 1895 church built in the Arts and Crafts style. Its three-building site surrounds an inner garden, where a redwood more than a century old grows among birdsong. Inside, look for the wooden, madrone-beamed ceiling, handcrafted furnishings, pastoral paintings and large windows that let in daylight. The church’s rustic rooms offer a quieter change of pace from the city streets, with architectural details that reward a slow look around.

An Arts and Crafts church in Pacific Heights

Built in 1895, the Swedenborgian Church is among the early Arts and Crafts buildings in California. Its site has three buildings arranged around an inner garden, and has changed little over more than a century. The church is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The design brings the Arts and Crafts style into a small church setting. Inside, the madrone-beamed ceiling and handcrafted furnishings draw attention to the work of the materials and makers. Pastoral paintings and large, multi-paned windows add to the room’s quiet character.

The church and its garden

The inner garden gives the visit a sheltered outdoor pause. A redwood more than a century old grows there, with birds often heard among the trees. Take time to look around the garden as well as inside the chapel; the site’s appeal comes from the relationship between its buildings, greenery and intimate sanctuary.

The church also hosts services and events. Weekdays are a practical choice for a quieter visit, since weddings and other events can take place on weekends. Check the church’s website if you would like to attend a service or event.