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LIGHT
FORM AND ORDER MAKER
Explores the use of research techniques and conceptual sketch model building to test and formulate design ideas. The role of defining the public space and façade are emphasized. The conflict between the natural environment and build context and the resolution of these two competing patterns are used challenge students to accommodate both. The use of constraint strategies to simplify the design problem are incorporated.
RESEARCH
Location: Riola di Vergato, Bologna, Italy
Architect: Alvar Aalto
"I do not write,I build."
- Alvar Aalto
Inside the church, Aalto used light in an extraordinary way. Natural light, coming from the north, flows through vertical, uneven ribs, creating a soft, glowing atmosphere. This light elevates the space, creating a sense of holiness.
The interior chapel's play on light has the northern light diffused through vertical, asymmetrical ribs, which create a majestic grid of soft light which projects down onto the worshiper. The presence of light brilliantly transcends the occupier into a holy state.
The intensified light around the altar is intended to create a close relationship between the functioning spaces of the altar, choir and organ, and the baptistery. The hexagonal baptistery is occupied by wooden pews that descend in height as they approach the luminous altar.
FLOOR
PLAN
SECTION
ELEVATION
CONTEXTUAL ANALYSIS
SUN ANGLES
SPRING
SUMMER
WINTER
FALL
PRELIMINARY IDEAS
SITE PLAN SELECTED
PUBLIC SPACE
After physically touring the campus, and noticing how the buildings are located around the area, placing the church in this specific area seemed like the best option to me. Firstly, note that there are no buildings, which could block natural light, thus using this resource to the maximum. Furthermore, it is an area, a little far from all academic places, it could be considered a space of peace, which is the objective of the church.
FLOOR PLAN
HIERARCHY
1. MAIN CHAPEL
2.MEMORIAL CHAPEL
3.MEDITATION CHAPEL
4. SECULAR
SORTING OF SPACES
RELIGIOUS
MAIN CHAPEL
MEMORIAL CHAPEL
MEDITATION CHAPEL
SECULAR
SECRETARY OFFICE
CLERGY'S OFFICE
SMALL LIBRARY AND CONFERENCE ROOM
STORAGE
TOILETS
CIRCULATION
2D LIGHT SECTION
Main Chapel
Meditation Chapel
Memorial Chapel
Entrance/Lobby
FINAL DESIGN
2D ELEVATIONS
SOUTH ELEVATION
EAST ELEVATION
NORTH ELEVATION
WEST ELEVATION
2D SECTION
SECTION 1
SECTION 2
RENDERS
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