Golden A' Design Award Winner 2020
Scanning this architectural visualization from background to foreground, the listener encounters a dramatic coastal scene dominated by an extraordinary chapel structure that appears to rise from black volcanic sand like a sculptural shelter inspired by whale forms. The distant background presents a horizontal band of ocean, its surface showing gentle waves rendered in cool blue-gray tones suggesting the color of weathered steel or winter sea ice, meeting a pale overcast sky that feels cool and diffused like light filtering through morning fog. A small formation of birds, perhaps eight or ten individuals, flies in loose chevron pattern across the upper right sky, their silhouettes providing scale that emphasizes the vastness of the coastal setting. The middle ground reveals the dark charcoal beach extending from left to right, its volcanic sand surface appearing granular and slightly rough like fine crusite powder, the darkness creating a dramatic foundation against which the structure achieves striking contrast. The chapel itself dominates the composition, positioned slightly left of center and occupying approximately half the image height. Its most commanding feature is a dramatically curved roof shell that sweeps upward from lower left toward upper right in a parabolic arc reminiscent of a whale's back during a breach. This exterior skin displays a striated texture suggesting weathered wood, its surface appearing rough yet rhythmic like driftwood grain or the ribbed texture of baleen, rendered in cool gray tones that might feel rough and fibrous to touch. The underside of this curve reveals warm honey-toned timber, smooth and inviting like sanded maple, creating a protected canopy over the enclosed space below. The facade facing the viewer features floor-to-ceiling glass panels held in dark metal frames, through which tiered wooden seating is visible, the interior glowing with warm amber light suggesting comfort and sanctuary. The structure rests on dark supports that elevate it slightly above the ground plane, and a cluster of rounded gray boulders, smooth as river stones, nestles against the right side base. A narrow wooden pier extends toward the right, leading toward the water's edge, its horizontal lines contrasting with the dramatic curve above. The overall atmosphere conveys contemplative stillness, the cool coastal environment and warm interior shelter creating an invitation to meditative rest.
The bionic form of the whale became the language of this chapel. A whale stranded on the coast of Iceland. A person can enter its body through a low fishtail and experience the perspective of a whale looking at the ocean where is easier for humans to reflect on the neglect of environmental degradation. The supporting structure falls on the beach to ensure minimal damage to the natural environment. Natural and environmentally friendly materials make this project a tourist destination that calls for environmental protection.