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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in a Contemporary Chapel Design

Author:
Mohsen Daneshgar
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in a Contemporary Chapel Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the chapel seamlessly integrates with its forested surroundings, providing a tranquil space for contemplation and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural stability and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that distinguishes it from traditional chapel forms.
04
Positioned along a pathway connecting the forest and local village, fostering community interaction.
05
Emphasizes natural light with large glass openings, creating a serene interior atmosphere.

The architectural project, "Harmony Between Heaven and Earth," is a chapel situated on the border of Austria and Hungary. This design emphasizes a blend of spiritual purpose and contemporary architectural methods, offering a space for reflection and community engagement. The building features a thoughtful interaction with its natural surroundings, serving both as a landmark and a place for personal introspection.

The primary function of the chapel is to provide a sanctuary for individuals seeking spiritual solace. Incorporating geometric forms, the design symbolizes the Holy Trinity, utilizing a triangular motif to convey stability and harmony. The octagonal floor plan allows for efficient circulation and fosters a communal atmosphere, encouraging both private reflection and social gathering.

Spatially, the chapel integrates nature into its interior experience. Large sections of glass facades allow natural light to filter through, creating an ethereal ambiance that changes throughout the day. The use of wood in the structure enhances the warmth of the interior, ensuring a connection to the environment while maintaining durability. Concrete supports the chapel's base, marking a deliberate choice to limit visibility and emphasize the primary materials of wood and glass.

Unique Design Approaches

A hallmark of this project is its commitment to sustainability and context-sensitive design. Rather than imposing upon the landscape, the chapel echoes the organic forms of the surrounding forest. This approach blends the built environment with nature, minimizing visual impact while enhancing the serenity of the site. The selection of materials—specifically wood, glass, and carefully placed concrete—underscores this ethos, illustrating an awareness of environmental integration and a focus on craftsmanship.

The chapel also distinguishes itself through its conceptual framework. The idea of "Harmony Between Heaven and Earth" extends beyond its functional purpose, offering a philosophical underpinning that resonates with visitors. This connection to spirituality is enhanced by the innovative use of space and light, where each element of the design contributes to an overarching narrative of balance and unity.

Architectural Features and Details

Detailed elements of the chapel's design include the interplay of light and shadow throughout the day, creating a dynamic atmosphere within the space. The roof structure features sloped angles that draw the eye upward, adding to the sense of transcendence. The integration of the path leading to the chapel emphasizes a connection to the surrounding community, encouraging visitors from nearby areas to engage with the space.

For those interested in an in-depth exploration of the project's architectural plans, sections, and designs, further examination of "Harmony Between Heaven and Earth" will provide valuable insights into its unique architectural ideas and the innovative approaches that characterize this contemporary chapel.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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