Light

Joshua Ramlakhan

Architectural Design II

Form and Order

The purpose of this project was to construct a non-denomination chapel, located on Farmingdale State College's campus. The chapel was required to collect sunlight without it directly infiltrating the space. This feat was achieved through the use of additive shapes, reflectors, and curves to the facade of the chapel so as to control the light flow into the structure. With the aid of analysis of existing chapels/ structures, the campus site, seasonal light patterns and angles, the chapel orientation, sire and design were conceived.

Background Research

I researched the Seinajoki Library designed by Alvar Aalto

This section shows how Alvar Aalto utilized a uniquely shaped roof with multiple ceiling heights and perfectly angled shutters to reflect light into the structure and wash the walls; never allowing light to directly enter the structure.

This image shows how the light entering from the shutters washes the ceiling on the left and reflects off that to light the area with the books. Also, how light enters from the right and washes the that ceiling while also being diverted downwards.

Contextual Analysis

Building Height

Circulation

Sun Diagrams

Winter

Fall

Summer

Spring

Site Selection

The analysis of light on the campus and the direction of the sun path influenced my design and where I placed the chapel on the campus. The chapel is slightly rotated so that it is in line with the sidewalk and public space above it but also to capture the natural sunlight and reflect it efficiently. I placed the chapel in the middle of the dormitories and the dining hall for students to access easily.

Hierarchy:

Religious:

1. Main Chapel

2. Meditation Chapel

3. Memorial Chapel

4. Offices/ Utility

1. Main Chapel

2. Meditation Chapel

3. Memorial Chapel

Secular:

1. Secretary Office

2. Conference Room

3. Library

4. Restrooms

5. Storage

6. Clergy Office

Preliminary 2D Light Sections

Design

Although I was assigned the Seinajoki Library I took inspiration from the Convent of La Tourette designed by Le Corbusier. I utilized the light canons of this structure in my own design as they provide an innovative way to reflect sunlight into the chapel.