Architects: LOCALARCHITECTURE, Danilo Mondada
Year: 2008
Photography: Milo Keller
Construction: IBOIS EPFL
Client: Institution des Diaconnesses de St-Loup
City: Pompaples
Country: Switzerland
The Temporary Chapel for the Deaconesses of St-Loup, designed by LOCALARCHITECTURE and Danilo Mondada in Switzerland, provided a worship space during the 2008 renovation of the community’s motherhouse. Constructed using timber panels based on advanced computer-generated designs, the chapel harmonizes with its natural surroundings while reinterpreting traditional Protestant church layouts. The structure, characterized by origami-like folds and transparent plastic panels, creates a space that is both dynamic and contemplative.
In 2007, LOCALARCHITECTURE and Danilo Mondada were commissioned to renovate the historic mother house of the Deaconess Community of St-Loup. The Renovation project focused on a complete overhaul of the main chapel within the building, aiming to preserve its historical significance while updating it to meet the community’s contemporary needs.
Recognizing that the mother house would need to be closed for the 18-month construction period starting in the summer of 2008, the architects proposed an innovative solution. Rather than opting for a conventional temporary structure, such as renting a tent or containers, they suggested constructing a temporary chapel to accommodate the community’s religious needs during this time.
LOCALARCHITECTURE, known for its expertise in timber construction and new structural techniques, collaborated with Hani Buri and Yves Weinand from the IBOIS laboratory at EPFL. The IBOIS team’s research into the folded structure was especially relevant to this project. Together, they designed a chapel using timber panels that allowed large areas to be covered with thin sections. The structure’s shape was determined through computer software that calculated the load-bearing capacity, and specified dimensions, and guided the cutting of the 6-cm thick timber panels.
The chapel was built directly on the ground and integrates seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Positioned along the east-west axis of the valley and open at both ends, the structure invites ample natural light. The design reflects the traditional layout of Protestant churches, where variations in width and height between the transept and nave create a dynamic space. The horizontal space at the entrance gradually narrows and rises toward the center, creating a progression emphasized by the folds in the facade, each reflecting light differently. This folding technique shapes the interior, fostering a reflective atmosphere.
Transparent plastic panels on the gable facades, covered with fabric, allow natural light to filter into the space. The structure’s frame, composed of columns and diagonals, evokes the appearance of a stained-glass window.
The wooden chapel in St-Loup is the first full-scale structure to integrate design and structural analysis through advanced computer-generated geometries. It also serves as a striking example of how a traditional religious space can be reinterpreted in harmony with its environment.
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Project Location
Address: Saint-Loup, Pompaples 1318, Switzerland
Location is for general reference and may represent a city or country, not necessarily a precise address.
