Ephemeral domes of light enclosed within elegant translucent cubes of steel and glass, set in a reflective pool of water, thus establishing a sacred place framed by a built ring containing the other elements of the project.
Strengths:
A brilliant concept, imaginative and thoroughly executed and depicted, addressing both the secular and religious requirement by 21st century means of glass and steel. The positioning of the two cubes in the water body within the site allows for contemplation and wonder by fusing sky and water. A true religious experience. This design also leads us to the 21st century of sustainable buildings by using vegetation and water and addressing heat recovery and optimum sun shade. The minimalist solution is a delight to the eye, creates a striking landmark, and has the potential to be an object of architectural pilgrimage.
This submission provides a new approach to the all-important Coptic concept of the Church being "Heaven on Earth", through creating an ephemeral dome of light; a real contribution to the debate about the rebirth of a contemporary Coptic architectural expression.
Weaknesses or modifications needed:
The difficulty of depicting the Icon of Christ on the ephemeral dome presents a challenging re-interpretation of the language of form of traditional Coptic religious architecture. The site plan appears too introverted, surrounding the Cathedral and Church with a continuous wall to the public streets. The phasing is problematic, with all functions in a single building composition. It is unlikely to fit the budget range of church construction identified in the Brief.
(From jury comments)
7 scanned / 6 viewable
- Perspective
- Site Plan
- Plan
- Plan
- Elevation
- Elevation
