In 2023, architects Lee Eunseok and Lee Eunseok + Atelier KOMA unveiled the Meditation Chapel in Kanghwa, South Korea. Spanning 142 m², this unique structure serves not as a traditional place of worship but as a sanctuary for solitary reflection amidst nature, offering a retreat from urban life.
A Sanctuary of Simplicity
Unlike minimalist architecture, which often strips away ornamentation, the Meditation Chapel embodies functional simplicity. It serves as a vessel for individuals seeking solitude and connection with the divine, rather than adhering to strict architectural conventions.
Symbolism in Design
The chapel’s simple box-like structure, elevated above the natural landscape, symbolizes a separation from the secular world. This deliberate elevation creates a reverent space, emphasizing vertical expansion and encouraging visitors to stand directly before the divine.
Four Distinct Surfaces
Internally, the chapel is divided into four surfaces, each representing a different theme: the sea, sound, light, and background. The concrete wall facing the sea captures a solemn view of the West Sea, while the rear wall houses an organ for occasional musical expressions of heavenly harmony.
Harmonizing with Nature
The chapel’s design integrates seamlessly with its natural surroundings, with walls welcoming greenery and funnel-shaped stained-glass windows metaphorically representing nature. These windows, unlike those found in medieval churches, abstractly depict greenery, fostering a continuous connection to nature.
Spatial Experiences
The chapel comprises three distinct spaces designed to facilitate mindfulness: the Sea Chapel, where visitors contemplate the horizon; the Closet Chapel, a narrow space illuminated by natural light; and the Sky Chapel, a rooftop area offering unobstructed views of the sky.
Conclusion
The Meditation Chapel in Kanghwa, South Korea, stands as a testament to the power of architecture to create spaces for introspection and spiritual connection. Through its minimalist design and deliberate integration with nature, it offers visitors a place to savor their existence and find solace amidst the chaos of modern life.
