Abstract:
There are two worlds that we as humans interact in: the physical world, and the spiritual world. The physical world is all we see around us, while the spiritual world is, for the most, what we cannot see, but rather sense. But, these worlds are not separate, at least from a Christian standpoint. They are actually one. If we can begin to see this, then we can begin to understand more of who God is.This thesis topic is an exploration into this merged world of body and soul. By looking at specific Christian-based issues that help define sacred space, such as relation to nature, presence of a sequential transition, or procession, the might of God, and God's transcendence, I believe it is possible to create a space that helps the visitor to become aware of the spiritual realm and what its role is in the physical world. With the beginning of this understanding, the visitor will begin to know more of God, which will allow him to have a more intimate relationship with his Designer and Creator.The place that was designed to demonstrate this is a small prayer chapel. This building type, along with the conditions of the site, allow for quiet meditation and prayer, getting the visitor in touch with the spiritual. It is from this state that the knowledge of the spiritual world, and further, God, can be expanded. This type of building also allows for the exploration of several issues that are key to sacred space, and more specifically, Christian sacred space, while its scale gives quite a bit of freedom and will lend itself to a more thorough and detailed design.
