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Kanhai Church

BRAND IDENTITY + SPACE DESIGN + SPACE BRANDING

A nuanced contemporary design for the Church of Immaculate Conception that reflects on its specific symbology in an environment of wonderment, peace, and spiritual reflection.

A Church in Gurgaon

The Church of Immaculate Conception is the biggest Catholic parish in Gurgaon. Nestled in the midst of a sprawling neighborhood that is still developing, the church building stands out with its earthy brick-tile design.

More Than A Backdrop

When the mosaic wall behind the altar had to be repaired, Lopez Design was invited to propose a redesign for the altar backdrop. After a study of the entire space, we proposed a holistic design intervention besides just repairing or creating a new altar backdrop. 

There was a lot of visual clutter, which was not conducive for reflection and prayer. The church’s outdoor space was barren, lacking foliage, and was missing comfortable spaces for casual community exchanges.

Evolving The Interior Space

For the redesign, three aspects were considered – the message, experience, and community. We proposed a design that would be contemporary in today’s context. The intention was to create an inviting worship environment and a sense of belonging leading to a strong well-knit parish community. The new design would also communicate and reflect the name of the church - “Church of the Immaculate Conception”

Conceptualizing Immaculate Conception

Immaculate Conception is a concept with many facets. With its special focus on Mary, space had to reflect various aspects of Mariology. In the Bible, Mary is quoted saying: “My soul rejoices in God my savior” (Luke 1:47). 

Right at the center, the focus is on the savior, the “Risen Lord” elevated in front
of the split stone, which symbolized the empty tomb. The cross cut on the stone is backlit. The altar backdrop behind the “Risen Lord” depicts different facets of the Catholic Faith, including symbols of the four gospels and rosary mysteries. The tabernacle with a stone finish has the Christogram – “Chi-Rho” symbolizing the presence of the Lord inside the tabernacle. It is surrounded by 12 crystal stars, symbolizing the ‘new ark of the covenant’ i.e. Mother Mary (Revelation 12:1). The statues of Mother Mary and St Joseph are placed on either side of the altar. The background has decorative glass-reinforced cement with embedded stained glass. 

Overall, the interior space was designed to have a transcendental feel with colors reminiscent of old world Jerusalem.

On the sides, the four petal windows have the ‘fleur-de-lis’ – a symbol of lily, traditionally used to depict the Virgin Mary. The stations of the cross have a stone finish. The two rows of pews at the left and right ends are oriented towards the altar inspiring greater involvement and participation.

The word “Immaculate” means “free of sin”, and the space had to reflect this perfection. We suggested, the removal of clutter and distractions, and the careful use of lights, textures, placement of objects, natural greenery, and water body, to create a space people retreat from the noise of daily life. A peaceful experience with sanctity and silence of a sacred space. The holy water font was designed for people to access it simultaneously from all sides.

Cultural Spaces For The Community

We suggested incorporating cultural practices such as removing shoes and reducing distractions by shifting the choir to the balcony. The outdoor stations of the cross use a simple engraved stone. Elaborate metal based designs have been avoided to discourage pilferage. Outside the hall, we proposed that the existing grotto be replaced and the surrounding outdoor space be redesigned to have a comfortable green space with benches that would encourage people to spend long hours.

We suggested that the space should be inviting for the young and old alike,
with open interactive spaces such as outdoor benches with ample natural shade. Recreational and activity spaces would attract the youth, and good clean toilets, efficient parking, safety signs, wheelchair passages, and other accessibility features would be welcoming for people with disabilities.

A new sound system was proposed to create a unified, distinct, and clear reach with the least amount of boom and echo. This was paired with a new lighting system that could be customized based on occasion, masses, or daylight timing.

Note: This project was not implemented due to unforeseen circumstances.

Team

Ajay Sharma
Nishita Karun
Mohan Godwal
Sujatha S Kumar
Anwesha Mukherjee
Anthony Lopez

Support

Vijay Soreng
Zeena Lopez

 

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