This commission was a family chapel standing on a gentle slope next to a forest of mimosa trees. From the top there are views of an extensive park with vernacular constructions that precede the approaching route.
The aim was to enhance the feeling of seclusion that comes from being in this natural environment, creating open spaces and maintaining the textures and materials of the existing architecture.
The program is developed against the slope, where a curved stone wall guides the entrance from the side to the central nave, under a flat 10 x 10 mt roof, which through the side opens to the forest through a glass wall, oriented towards a double-height space that houses the altar, a small choir and under it, the sacristy. The rear exit is through three pivoting doors that open completely, leading to an embankment that visually dominates the place.
Behind the wall that embraces the altar is a small patio contained under the density of the forest, from which one can access the choir space or use for meditation.
Location
Coelemu, Ñuble
Co-Author
Sebastián Espinoza
Construction
Jorge Carrasco
Photography
Guy Wenborne
Year
2003
Awards and Exhibitions
XIV Architecture Biennale • Chile
IX Architecture Biennale • Venice
IV Iberoamerican Architecture Biennale • Lima