Light

The main goal of this project is to come up with a modern design for a chapel that will be placed at Farmingdale State College. The college wants the chapel to be a special place where people from different religions can come together to worship and think about life.

A key part of the college's vision is how the lighting is used in the chapel. They want to be creative in controlling how light comes into the sacred space. This is important because they want to make sure the man-made chapel fits well with the beautiful natural surroundings, without causing any problems.

Background Research

I researched the Seinäjoki Library. The library was designed by the Finnish architect Alvar Aalto and built in 1965 in Seinäjoki, Finland.

Library services in Seinäjoki commenced in 1865, initially operating as an extension of the local church. In the early 20th century, municipal authorities assumed control, integrating the library into the local school system. The appointment of the first designated librarian occurred in 1960, coinciding with Seinäjoki's attainment of city status.

Section of the Seinäjoki Library. The uniquely curves on the roof allows varies rays of light.

As the windows panel are shifted at a certain angle and placed at a sun angle that allows light to be captivated.

Contextual Analysis & Sun Angles

Winter

Summer

Spring

Autumn

Site Plan & Sorting

Hierarchy

1.Main Chapel
2. Memorial Chapel
3. Meditation Chapel
4. Secular

Sorting of Spaces

Religious

Main Chapel

Memorial Chapel
Meditation Chapel

Secular

Offices

Lobby

Preliminary 2D Light Diagrams

REFRENCES

The wall incorporates the techniques that Le Corbusier used for Notre Dame du Haut.

The wall in Notre Dame du Haut, designed by Le Corbusier, ingeniously integrates openings and fenestrations to interact with natural light, creating dynamic patterns within the chapel. This intentional design serves both a practical purpose of illumination and enhances the spiritual and aesthetic ambiance of the sacred space. The strategic placement of architectural elements allows for an ever-changing interplay of light, enriching the sensory experience for those within.