Bull O'Sullivan Architecture perches tiny chapel on New Zealand hillside
New Zealand studio Bull O'Sullivan Architecture has perched a compact aluminium-clad chapel on a hillside overlooking the Lyttelton Harbour near Christchurch.
Borrowing its name from a French Carmelite nun, The Chapel of St Thérèse of Lisieux is housed within a 17-square-metre triangular volume that nods to the Holy Trinity.
Bull O'Sullivan Architecture said it built the chapel as a "gift to the people of Christchurch" and to serve as a place of "worship, reflection and architectural engagement".
"In today's society, a lot of people don't want to go to church, but they appreciate a small spiritual place they can venture by themselves," project architect Michael O'Sullivan told Dezeen.
"This is such a space – it may be a place for worship and prayer, contemplation, or simply for showing gratitude," he added.
"The triangular shape is a play on the Trinity – the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit."
Externally, The Chapel of St Thérèse of Lisieux is defined by its truncated triangular volume.
It is raised on wooden stilts, concealed at the base by the aluminium sheets that cloak the exterior.
Continuing the triangular motif is a deep-set aluminium door, finished with a cross-shaped metal handle.
It is accessed by a set of steps that lead across the sloped site and sheltered by an entryway complete with grilled flooring and a small wooden bench.
Inside, Bull O'Sullivan Architecture opted for a warmer material palette, with locally sourced timber used to line the walls and floor.
A carved sculpture of Jesus on a cross was made from reclaimed wood by local artist Johnny Hauraki and forms the centrepiece of the chapel's minimalist interior.
Behind the sculpture, a window overlooking the harbour draws light into the space, alongside the translucent roof panels that create a red-toned glow across the interior.
Smaller details include a built-in shelf and a wooden kneeler chair designed by woodworker Glenn Whatmough.
Bull O'Sullivan Architecture is a New Zealand studio founded by Andrew Bull and Michael O'Sullivan, with offices in Auckland and Christchurch.
Other places of worship recently featured on Dezeen include Open Chapel by Christopher Hesse Architects, which is enclosed by sandstone pillars and Our Lady of Sorrows Chapel by RCNKSK, which features a blend of "medieval craftsmanship" and contemporary design.
The photography is by Mary Gaudin.
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