006 → Equilibrium
Reuse Italy
Team: Yanci Chen, Jing Chen, Xiaohan Qiu, Xiaoyu Yang
Our design concept begins with the history of the site: this place was once controversial among three surrounding towns, with its function changing over time, ultimately falling into gradual abandonment. The lonely abbey now stands in the midst of farmland, left to the quiet passage of time. When rediscovering this church, we are introducing “balance” into the design, as balance brings calmness. Though this church has suffered from past conflicts and decay, we hope that the new interventions can bring a delicate balance with the existing weathered elements. Our design aims to reflect on history and the past, while offering hope and confidence for the future. We have preserved most of the existing building, added inset volumes, reinforcing the structure while maintaining its original character.
We have kept the main entrance and reinforced key thresholds to create a passage that channels visitors into the experience. We relocated the wall that was sealing Apse at front, which opens up the space and defines a mini atrium that accommodates both the reception and changing spaces. In areas that were once empty, we introduced traditional stained-glass windows, bringing warmth and inviting visitors into a space. Reception staff can also engage with activities. While preserving the core elements of the building, we have reimagined key architectural features such as the columns and clerestory windows, creating a colonnade that forms a visual sequence to enhance the tranquil atmosphere while also acting as a wayfinding element. Between the colonnades, we have integrated seating to maximize the use of the space without disrupting the overall sense of serenity.
For more active programs, we have positioned them around the crossing: the Apse serves as the main stage, the left transept is for media/workshop space, and the right transept has the kitchen and dining areas. The crossing itself is designed as a flexible support space, providing the necessary clearance for various activities. The new volume extends from the roof down to the walls, with offset wall planes creating a light, airy feel. Natural light is subtly introduced into the space, reflecting off the existing stone walls, casting soft shadows that reveal the texture of the historic fabric.
The right side of the site, which was open air, has been designated as a meditation room. At the entrance to the meditation room, we have created a series of buffer zones that gradually slow the pace of movement, corresponding to the deepening process of meditation. We have chosen softer materials instead of solid partitions to cultivate a quiet, contemplative atmosphere. Visitors would pass through the portal, enter a corridor wrapped in black velvet, preparing them mentally for the meditative journey. As they proceed, subtle light projections onto the walls reveal a free meditation space, where individuals can sit on the floor to meditate, either alone or in pairs. Turning around, communal meditation space transits to a semi-private meditation area. They can begin their inner journey beside one of the columns, or they can walk around to find an unmarked room behind a velvet curtain, where they can start their personal session. Visitors may also choose to meditate in the tower—a space that combines both physical and mental reflection. Privacy is enhanced as visitors ascend the tower, with the act of climbing itself becoming a meditative experience.
For the public restrooms, we have placed them around a standalone existing wall, with the lavatory facing the weathered wal openings, allowing visitors to sanitize their hands with view of the building. Each restroom has separate entrances and partitions for men and women, with partitions made from curtains, ensuring privacy while allowing flexibility, providing options for gender-neutral individuals.
Our design weaves together history, balance, and modern functions, creating a space that not only honors the past but also offers tranquility, reflection, and new possibilities for the future.