experiencing nature

The Seashore Chapel serves the resort community of Hebei, China. It is the artificial space that is the closest to the ocean in the community. Apart from religious programs, many public and community events are planned in Seashore Chapel. Together with Seashore Library, they provide spiritual spaces at ocean front, where people can slow down their pace, experience the nature and examine their inner state.

When designing the building Vector Architects imagined the Seashore Chapel as an old boat drifting on the ocean. The ocean receded through time and left an empty structure behind, which is still lying on the beach.

There are limited openings on the chapel. The only large horizontal ocean-view window is on the east facade. Its 2.7m height helps to avoid the interruption of excessive light to the interior, and also frames the view to the ocean. A few narrow gaps in between the walls also bring in natural lighting. Lighting is carefully controlled with the 10-meter tall interior space misting diffused light.  Spiritual design at its best !