ShowCase is an on-going feature series on Archinect, presenting exciting new work from designers representing all creative fields and all geographies.
We are always accepting nominations for upcoming ShowCase features - if you would like to suggest a project, please send us a message.
The chapel project for VLP, the Flemish Lasallian School Network, is a metaphor for the pedagogic philosophy with which the institution embraces people: How can we transform the turmoil and unrest deep within us so the visitor can leave the space 'different', changed, rested, happy, saved? The experience of the chapel should be so powerful that it motivates visitors to take the initiative in their own schools.
The architectural structure and integrity of the original chapel in Grand-Bigard, Belgium was kept unchanged—all of the redesign's attention went to the refurbishment of the interior. The traditional features of the old chapel, like its apse and stained glass windows, were 'hatched in.' This creates a totally new and unexpected environment.
The visitor enters an open, apparently indefinable space: there is no center, no direction, no image. A white ceiling, walls covered with white shutters separated by thin red lines, white sand as flooring.
Everything breathes sober, serene receptivity for what the visitor brings in. The chapel starts as a white space or void waiting to be filled with the visitor's stories, meaning and expectation. The encounter with the mystery of life begins in the inner presence of the visitor. Through unfolding of the apse, the stained glass windows and the view of the green surroundings enter the space and appeal to the inner strength. The inherent story of the chapel engages with the story of the visitor.
The chapel is filled with sand in order to create a relieving, muted space for the senses. Entering of the room becomes a ritual, and the floor turns into a large writing and drawing plane.
The room invites for silence, reflection, interaction, and initiative.
Project Details:
Type: Remodeling of an old historic chapel
Client: VLP, Flemish Lasallian School Network
Location: De La Salle Center in Grand-Bigard, Belgium
Year: 2009-2011
Architects: tccp (Cindy Tirry & Tom Callebaut), Bruges, Belgium
Photographer: Luc Roymans for chilli media
7 Comments
I love this project.
like :)
very nice. want to see from outside too.
i love this chapel, but i would like to see the outside, as well.
Hi Will & Ariana,
Unfortunatelly, it was storming outside the day of the shoot - so no exterior images...but mainly though because the exterior looks like a plain old chapel/building...it makes the contrast with the inside even bigger!
cheers, lucky
The reason I want to see the exterior is that I'm hoping it's really crusty and different from the interior. The striking minimalism gives the space an secretive feel. I feel like the exterior shouldn't give anything away.
it doesn't at all lol ;) i'll try to get hold of an exterior shot for you guys asap!
Block this user
Are you sure you want to block this user and hide all related comments throughout the site?
Archinect
This is your first comment on Archinect. Your comment will be visible once approved.