Location: Dongguk University, Seoul
Status: Conceptual design
Project Description:
Dongguk University is located between Namsan Mountain and a dense, urban condition. The campus straddles the base of the mountain, and provides students a place removed from the constant motion of Seoul. The chapel design explored a furthering of this relationship wherein the pilgrim may find another layer of refuge once within its walls. The main sanctuary space becomes like a pit in an avocado, that all important prize, protected by flesh and shell. Ancillary spaces get pushed out to protect the sanctuary, while a processional path splits the two.
site plan oriented north up
ground floor plan oriented north up
A one meter band of glazing along the top of the sanctuary invites filtered canopy light into the space. Thesanctuary structure is composed of glu-lam beams, wood columns, and wood framed wall panels. Cast in place concrete helps ground the rest of the building as well as make its protection of the sanctuary a bit more evident.
procession to the chapel
section through the chapel looking towards the dais
section of the chapel and site looking south
concept sketch
studiomelodico.com 