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Project 3: Light

For this project we were told to design a non-denominational chapel for Farmingdale State College. The goal is to create a deeply spiritual space where people of all faiths can come to reflect, pray, or find peace. The key element to achieve this atmosphere is the creative use of natural light.

Light Background Research:

Convent of La Tourette - Le Corbusier 

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Rather than relying on traditional windows, he carefully introduced light through a series of precisely placed architectural features. Horizontal bands of colored glass along the side walls allow filtered, tinted light to enter the chapel. A skylight brings natural light down gently onto the upper edges of the walls, while the roof remains in shadow. Vertical slits provide soft, ambient lighting. Altogether, these techniques reflect Le Corbusier’s intention to make light feel controlled, sacred, and deeply integrated into the spiritual experience of the building.

Le Corbusier design concept here was to create a space that is shaped by light and concrete. A spiritual space without decoration, where light, portion and silence are the key elements. 

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Site Selection:

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I placed my church here since I believe it will bring more student life to the area. 

Sorting of Space:

Religious 

  • Main Chapel

  • Memorial Chapel 

  • Meditation Chapel

Hierarchy 

  • Main Chapel

Secular 

  • Offices

  • Library

  • Conference Room

  • Storage

  • Restrooms

Final Floor Plan: 

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Contextual Analysis Charts: 

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Forms

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Function

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Space

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Circulation

Sun Angles:

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Preliminary 2D  Light Sections & Circulation Diagram:

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CIRCULATION.1.png

Surrounding Context:

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Elevations:

North Elevation

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South Elevation

SOUTH ELEVATION.png

East Elevation

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West Elevation

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Sections:

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3D Sections:

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Exterior Views: 

Ext. View 1.png
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