Chinese architect Yu Zhou, the founding of United Design Group (UDG), has envisioned and designed the triangular dramatic chapel of the poly shallow sea in Sanya, China. The dramatic Dysis Chapel embraces all the important elements in nature such as the sky, sea, and sunset to give a unique appeal. The amazing wooden chapel is surrounded by a pool of water that cascades off a stone base. Set on a rotating base the chapel follows the direction of the sun every day. Read more about the project below at SURFACES REPORTER (SR):
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Situated in the South corner of Hainan, the project enjoys a profound cultural context. The simple yet compelling triangle structure pierces the sky with strong spirituality, like an eternal monument between the sea and sky. The rotating device orients towards the position of the setting sun all year round, vividly implying that the moment is eternity. It is in this way the building perfectly fulfills its functions—chapel of a love-themed cultural town used to host weddings, and a popular destination for lovers. Confined in two geometric shapes- a circle and a triangle, the project reveals a poetic expression of eternity, sanctity, and time.
Design Details
Generally, ancient ritual places such as Stonehenge are in circular forms that inspired the inner design of the chapel. With a complete and perfect geometric shape, the circular volume offers people an open view of the vast sea as they stand on the second floor, and helps form a clear spatial relationship. The sharp form of the triangle structure breaks the completeness and softness of the circle.
It is like the spire of an ancient oriental tower or a gothic church, indicating people's yearning for establishing a relationship with God (sky) and thus building a connection with everything in the world. A straight line that deviates from the center splits the circle into two pools of varying heights, with a "water curtain" in between.
The window frame of the chapel is designed based on a T-shaped structure, while the curved wall and the protruding second-floor slab also form an abstract "T" shape.
Two walking paths are formed by the two high walls and ramps in the courtyard. The lofty walls cast a large area of shadows on both paths. The calming, mysterious interplay of light and shadows add a solemn moment-like atmosphere to the space.
Walking upward along the curved ramps on both sides, people can have a glimpse of the sky and sea through the gaps of the water courtyard walls. The scene of a water courtyard filled with light and shadows unfolds slowly on both sides, and the water curtain represents the boundary between the secular and the spiritual, light and darkness, and the known and the unknown. The gurgle of water symbolizes the dialogue between time, space, and people.
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Classic Symmetric Layout
The chapel design features a classic symmetric layout to emphasize the sense of ritual. On the axis of entering the chapel, a bell tower is added as a ceremonial node of the space.
The vaulted bell tower and the mysterious triangular chapel form a playful space similar to that in Monument Valley, carrying memories of the bygone times as well as a futuristic vibe.
Project Details
Project Name: Dysis Chapel
Design Firm: United Design Group
Principal Architect: Yu Zhou
Source: United Design Group
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