同志社大学京田辺キャンパス礼拝堂および関連施設 [建築設計競技], 京都/Kyoto (2012)

“Axis”

The facade lines of 2 new buildings align with adjacent buildings that follow the ‘Campus grid’, however the interior arrangement is in alignment with a ‘Christian orientation’ to East in order to render present the holy spirit of Jesus.

“Symbolic shape”

There are 4 white sharply pitched roofs like 'blades', each with its own angle that creates a symbolic impression through both location at the corner of the open-air chapel square and its presence next to classical style of Learned Memorial Library. The outstanding shiny roofs can be seen from the main gate.

“Material”

The buildings are composed of 3 major materials; brick, glass and steel. And all furniture is constructed out of timber.

‘Brick’ – construction of one half of the volume including all floors & walls and adjoining outside areas

‘Glass’ – construction of another half volume and windows

‘Steel’ – wall & roof plates and structure for the glazed facade

“Structure”

Both buildings are constructed with combination of reinforced concrete and steel structure. Additionally, the roof construction is sandwiched steel plate which establishes continuities with the steel wall and de-touching of brick and glass walls.

“Sanctuary”

We enter the sanctuary through the high door which continues up to the ceiling. There the seating is oriented toward the minister at the altar, with crystal cross and open-air chapel square through the partly openable glazing façade. Within the space, the atmosphere of the lounge in the Center for Christian culture is visible across the alley. Therefore, this sequence of spaces from the sanctuary to the Center for Christian culture would be experienced as a single space. The directed steel frames of the glass façade also emphasize the orientation of the room into our consciousness. The sound of pipe organ at the side of the room encloses us along the sloped ceiling.