Restoration of the Catholic Church Area of Chongzhou
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Centuries-Old
Chengdu, the capital province of Sichuan has been the center of five major religions that co-existed ever since the Qing Dynasty. One of the 4 most populous cities in China, it boasts a long history of religious dissemination and famously, the birthplace and cradle of Taoism. With many religious buildings being built at the start of the Qing Dynasty, the centuries-old Catholic Churches that were built in the early 1800s now undergo extensive renovation and restoration projects. The Catholic Church of Chongzhou is part of the project that is aimed to preserve and enhance the church's historical and cultural significance while maintaining its architectural integrity.
The project will be going through three core processes: Restoration, Exhibition, and Renewal, where each contributes to a thoughtful revival of this sacred space. In terms of restoration, the design prioritises the reconstruction of historical elements such as column bases, window lattices, and door frames, ensuring that the original craftsmanship is respected. The restoration also involves cleaning and repairing the church’s structure, carefully removing layers of paint added over time to reveal the authentic brick and stone. These efforts not only preserve the architectural heritage but also reconnect the building with its original aesthetic, bringing to life the intricate brick carvings and stonework that had been obscured.
For the exhibition component, the design approach embraces the church's Western Sichuan architectural style, particularly focusing on the chuandou-style framework of the roof beams. To showcase the building’s historical narrative, the ceiling boards are removed, exposing the wooden framework and revealing structural details that have been hidden for generations. This unveiling allows visitors to experience the passage of time, enhancing their appreciation of the church's deep-rooted history while providing a visual connection to the craftsmanship of the past.
The renewal aspect of the project integrates modern elements while honouring local culture and religious customs. The texture of “Daoming bamboo weaving” is incorporated into the dome’s design, symbolising a connection to local traditions, though the material is adapted to stainless steel for fire safety. The central aisle’s mosaic floor is also inspired by original window patterns, blending the old with the new. The six-layered lighting design further enhances the ambience, highlighting architectural features while ensuring the building’s sustainability for the future.
The renovation of the Catholic Church in Chongzhou reflects a deep respect for its historical symbolism, blending restoration, exhibition, and renewal to create a harmonious balance between preserving the past and embracing the future.
Credits
Entry Title: Restoration of the Catholic Church Area of Chongzhou
Entrant Company: Chengdu DOV Design Co.
Winning Category: Interior Design - Religious, Symbolic & Spiritual Buildings / Monuments
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