SABE INTERIOR
SPIRITUAL OASIS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE RWANDAN LANDSCAPE
COMPETITION 2019
Rwanda, a relatively small country in Africa, is one of the most fascinating regions on the continent due to its abundant resources, delightful climate, and breathtaking landscapes. It is one of the most densely populated areas in sub-Saharan Africa and is home to a variety of wildlife that thrives in its stunning lakes and mountains. However, Rwanda has a tragic history marked by ethnic conflicts between the Tutsi and Hutu groups. In 1994, during a genocide, approximately 800,000 people were killed. Since then, Rwanda has made significant progress in national reconciliation and rebuilding, but the traumatic memories of the genocide remain unresolved.
The Rwanda Chapel is a competition project organized by the "Young Architects Competition" for the community of Rukomo. The goal is to build a church for the local religious community and believers. Our concept for this new building in Rwanda was based on the idea of using the natural beauty and typology of the landscape and integrating it into the design of the building. We created a harmonious interaction between the landscape and the structure, allowing the building to blend seamlessly into its natural surroundings. To achieve this, we expanded the landscape's linear patterns, marked intersections, and eventually found a fitting form. The result is an organic shape that resembles the layered landscape forms while capturing the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Natural materials found in the region of Rwanda were used for a sustainable design process to promote eco-friendly construction methods. Furthermore, we aim to support the local job market and create employment opportunities by ensuring community involvement in the project, especially through the use of local materials. We also paid special attention to ensuring that the building has a harmonious connection to nature. The building features numerous openings that allow natural light and air flows, creating a seamless transition between interior and exterior spaces.
In addition to integrating the landscape typology, we also focused on incorporating Rwanda's history and culture into the design. A significant inspiration for the design was the rain, which evokes painful memories for many Rwandans, as they fled in heavy rain during the genocide. The design concept includes a water basin at the end of the chapel that collects rainwater, creating a positive symbolic meaning of rain. Our building is intended to be a place of peace and reconciliation, where people can come together regardless of their differences and disagreements. It is meant to be a space where they can meditate in unity and harmony, practicing their spirituality.
1.01 ATRIUM 57,34 m²
1.02 NAVE 90,27 m²
1.03 ALTAIR 17,24 m²
1.04 PUBLIC CORRIDOR 29,02 m²
1.05 CORRIDOR FOR PRIEST&NUNS 37,08 m²
1.06 CONFESSIONAL 7,15 m²
1.07 THE WELL 33,01 m²
1.08 ATRIUM FOR EVENTS 83,06 m²
