Ensemble Pastoral Catholique / Brenac & Gonzalez & Associés

Ensemble Pastoral Catholique / Brenac & Gonzalez & Associés - More Images+ 47

Boulogne-Billancourt, France

Text description provided by the architects. Although all the buildings of the B4 macro-plot are designed «like rocks in a Zen garden», through its symbolism, its scale and position, the pastoral element is in keeping with the open interiority of the central courtyard and public areas.

© Sergio Grazia

To strengthen its strategic role, it was necessary to hit upon a memorable sculptural form so as to assert its singularity and architecturally break from other briefs.

Floor Plan

The building is like a unitary zinc envelope and folded volumes that are rolled around a central patio, a matrix void that draws in light to the heart of the holy space. Under its metal envelope, this continuous, origami-like system covers the whole building like a shelter, i.e. the chapel, the oratory, meeting rooms and the family reception room. The volume rises vertically in an ascending movement from the prow and turns into a spire at the steeple.

© Sergio Grazia

The exterior slits look like tears in the envelope that draw in the light but soften the views. Large picture windows lend more generous transparency to the entrance and the foyer and seem to invite people into this peaceful haven.

© Sergio Grazia

Although from the public area the chapel may look mysterious and closed, the atmosphere inside is something else entirely. As soon as one enters the place for prayer and reflection the atmosphere of serenity comes as a surprise, evoking a sense of the muted light of a forest floor. This is due to the scattering of skylights hidden by a wood-slat ceiling.

© Sergio Grazia

What is more immaterial than light with its ability to express holiness and mystery? Its variations and ranges are a source of wealth offered to those who know how to see it.

© Sergio Grazia

Facades :

- The roofing and steeple are in gray-patina zinc with standing seams. The vertical walls are made of stapled zinc clapboard with the same patina so as to ensure full volume continuity.

© Sergio Grazia

- Depending on their locations, the indentations of the window frames and openings are clad in reflecting annealed stainless steel (to highlight the contrast between the matt of the zinc and the immateriality of the stainless steel), wood or champagne-colored lacquered aluminum.

© Sergio Grazia

We used this play of contrasts and opposing materials to enhance the infinite effects of light and its influence on the perception or modification of the materials.

© Sergio Grazia

- The frames are in gray-lacquered aluminum but hidden behind the facing, sometimes in larch for the woodwork of the housing units.

© Sergio Grazia

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Project location

Address:Boulogne-Billancourt, France

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Location to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.
About this office
Cite: "Ensemble Pastoral Catholique / Brenac & Gonzalez & Associés" 06 May 2015. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/626864/ensemble-pastoral-catholique-atelier-d-architecture-brenac-gonzalez> ISSN 0719-8884

© Sergio Grazia

田园式合唱教堂/ Atelier d’Architecture Brenac-Gonzalez

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