The chapel's exterior is relatively plain, composed of curved steel and 21 wall panels stained a light ochre. The wall color is intended to resemble the stone used in the churches of Rome. A long reflecting pool and six Japanese Katsura trees provide a peaceful context for the chapel.
Entrance is on the south side, through doors made of Alaskan yellow cedar with reddened bronze accents. One door is larger than the other, based on the traditional practice of having a smaller door for everyday use and a larger door for ceremonial occasions.
The doors open into the narthex, a spacious room decorated with modern art inspired by St. Ignatius of Loyola. The cement floors are warmed with a large wool rug designed by the architect, which represents the River Cardoner where St. Ignatius experienced one of his illuminations. The wall is decorated with five icons of the saint painted by Dora Nikolova Bittau.