Family Chapel
FAMILY CHAPEL
EXiT architetti associati
YEAR
2009
LOCATION
Padua, Italy
CATEGORY
Chapel
Text description provided by architect.
Instead of a project description, EXiT shared with us some extracts from the conversation with the client, so we can understand the design development of the chapel.
EXiT
“ Then, we propose designing a small space within the city. Basically, in Padova you’ll have a personal and private space where you could go to think, meditate, concentrate and, above all, allow yourself precious time to stay close to your loved ones”.
FP and MP: “I don’t think that spending time in a family chapel would be comfortable, as they are often dark.
In addition you cannot sit in them because there is not enough space and they lack air also”.
EXiT: “That’s why we thought about developing a comfortable space where you can sit and stay in contact with the atmospheric agents but be protected by them.
The roof, with its passage of soft and changing light would enable you to appreciate the passing of time, and in case of rain, the water would drain through some holes inside the chapel.
The floor, made of white gravel, would drain the water leaving the floor dry and when the silence becomes too oppressive, with the slight movement of gravel by foot, you will be accompanied in your thoughts by a slight sound.
The door would not be closed hermetically but would allow air and light to pass so as to realize a controlled microclimate with a changing light according to the hour of the day.
EXiT: “That’s why the stone will have a silent facing so it will be difficult to identify the burial niches.
That’s why the wall design will look uniform from the inside to the outside and thus will mitigate the passae through the two ambiances.
The roof will be developed by joining inox tubes that would be soldered together; this will produce a continuum of movement of lights and shadows leading your sight upwards.
A few of these tubes will not be covered and from them light, air, rain will pass allowing you to see the sky.”
