San Lorenzo is the Florentine church regarded as Filippo Brunelleschi’s first major architectural project.
Brunelleschi began redesigning the church in the early 1420s for the Medici family and other patrons. Its clear geometric organization, restrained decoration, and use of classical columns became important models for Renaissance architecture.
The basilica contains the Old Sacristy, designed by Brunelleschi and completed around 1428. Donatello created important sculpture for the sacristy, while later Medici chapels expanded the church complex.
San Lorenzo is sometimes confused with Santo Spirito, another Florentine church designed by Brunelleschi. Santo Spirito was begun later, in the 1430s, and was completed after his death.