Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel

Discovering the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel: An Architectural Gem in Bella Vista, Arkansas

Nestled among the lush woods of Bella Vista, Arkansas, the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel is a breathtaking architectural masterpiece. Known for its stunning blend of nature and design, the chapel has become a popular destination for visitors and an enchanting venue for weddings. Here’s a closer look at the history, architecture, and serene beauty of this iconic chapel.

Architectural Highlights

The Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel was designed by renowned Arkansas architect E. Fay Jones, an apprentice of Frank Lloyd Wright and a celebrated figure in organic architecture. Jones’ work is known for its harmony with nature, and this chapel is one of his most acclaimed creations. Completed in 1988, the chapel embodies a fusion of Gothic-inspired arches and contemporary design, seamlessly blending into its forested surroundings.

The chapel’s 15 curved arches soar 50 feet into the air, creating a cathedral-like structure entirely surrounded by glass. The expansive windows and steel-and-wood construction allow natural light to filter through, creating an ethereal atmosphere that changes with the seasons and weather. Inspired by cathedrals and the Ozarks’ natural beauty, Jones used 31 tons of steel and 4,460 square feet of glass to craft this stunning woodland sanctuary.

A Tribute to Mildred B. Cooper

The chapel was commissioned by the Cooper family to honor Mildred B. Cooper, a devoted wife, mother, and community leader who had a deep love for nature. As the matriarch of the family that developed Bella Vista, Mildred’s appreciation for the outdoors lives on through the chapel, which was intended as a peaceful, reflective space open to everyone. The chapel is free to enter, and its doors are open to the public year-round.

A Beloved Wedding Venue

With its peaceful setting, majestic architecture, and enchanting natural surroundings, the Mildred B. Cooper Chapel has become a sought-after wedding venue. Couples from across the country come to exchange vows beneath the soaring arches, with the changing seasons offering unique backdrops—from the lush greens of summer to the vibrant autumn colors, and even the serene beauty of winter. The chapel’s elegance and unique ambiance create a truly memorable experience for weddings, intimate ceremonies, and other special occasions.

Other Works by E. Fay Jones

E. Fay Jones is celebrated for designing several notable chapels in Arkansas that share the same organic architectural style, each creating a spiritual connection between structure and setting:

• Thorncrown Chapel (Eureka Springs, AR): One of Jones’ most famous works, Thorncrown Chapel is a glass-and-steel structure that seems to float in the Ozark woods. Often compared to the Cooper Chapel, Thorncrown features Jones’ signature use of natural light and Gothic-inspired arches.

• Anthony Chapel (Garvan Woodland Gardens, Hot Springs, AR): Another beautiful glass chapel designed by Jones’ firm, Anthony Chapel stands in the heart of botanical gardens, offering a tranquil setting with six-story-tall windows that frame the surrounding trees.

These chapels, like the Cooper Chapel, are celebrated examples of how architecture can blend harmoniously with nature, creating spaces that feel sacred and serene.

Visiting Information

The Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel welcomes visitors who want to appreciate its unique architecture and tranquil atmosphere. Admission is free, and visitors are encouraged to explore the surrounding woodland trails for a complete experience of Bella Vista’s natural beauty.

• Address: 504 Memorial Drive, Bella Vista, AR 72714
• Phone: (479) 855-6598
• Website: Cooper Chapel

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a nature lover, or a couple searching for the perfect wedding venue, the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel is a must-visit destination in Northwest Arkansas. With its seamless integration of design and nature, this architectural gem offers visitors a moment of peace, beauty, and reflection in the heart of Bella Vista’s woodlands.