This is a project with very strong
emotional implications. We had to understand the mood of the user, who at such
this moment would not care very much for an aesthetical analisis of any place,
but at the same time we wanted to create a space that can create a spritual
mood, for this we refered to ancient buidings that were designed for this
purpose, as the Egiptian “Mastabas” or some Mayan buildings in Palenque.
Religious rules and buildings codes
in the Jewish Religion are very strict for this kind of places, and we were
guided by several groups of Rabbies for this matter.
A project of this nature must
encourage introspection
and
peaceful visual harmony through a discrete use of materials and lighting. The construction is located
in a residential area and being planned as an isolated construction from the sorroundings,
an indoor illuminated
yard was
built. The building façade is completely covered by Grissal
flamed granite.
The building welcomes de visitor with a
6´4” wide and 30´ high triangular shaped wooden door which leads to an access
tunnel in the same shape, creating a solemn
atmosphere as you enter. This darkening experience at the entrance ends
when the hallway opens to a large, double height granite hall illuminated by
the northern light coming from the indoor courtyard with a tall Dracaena at the center and a symbolical abstract sculpture by artist Saul
Kaminer as the only artwork piece for decoration.
No furniture was used inside
this place,only a floating bench surrounding the room, that is made out of the
same wood used in all the building. It also serves to hide al of the air conditioning, speakers and recesed
lighting which adds a dramatical touch. This way the rooms shows no added
ornament but the light and shades playing on the granite volumes.The ceiling is
made of dark cumaru wood and floats without touching any wall and a skylight
puts a highlight on this detail.
View Original