Project Time Frame: 4 weeks

Week 1: Visiting and documenting dimensions of Unity Temple

Week 2: Initial design

Week 3: First Critique

Week 4: Final design details, and production of model and documents

Unity Temple, located in Oak Park IL, was a highly sensitive project where we had to decide on whether to create a connection to the old building or design an entirely new building.  I decided it would not be practical to connect to the old building.  I created the main design concept from a sectional view, because of the long, thin nature of the site.  Four stone columns forces the land upward creating the main spaces beneath; mimicing early christianity grotto-like buildings.  This creates a dark interior with slivers of light penetrating through the thick exterior walls.  This light shines through brightly during the morning service hours to portray the holy being looking upon the patrons of the church. 

The roof is thick to support an entirely green roof where people can roam gather after service or relax for lunch during the week.  Water collected from the roof will be stored in a cistern and can be used as grey water for multiple purposes throughout the building.