Gospel: A Unique Church Design by Shi Zhe Lo

Merging Chinese Style and Christian Symbolism

The exterior of the Gospel church is designed to resemble a traditional Chinese screen, creating an air of mystery and intrigue. The twelve pillars not only represent the Twelve Tribes of Israel but also serve as a symbol of strength against strong winds. This design choice not only adds visual interest but also pays homage to the chosen people of Christianity.

One of the key considerations in the realization of this design was safety. The concrete weight was increased, and thicker rebars were used to enhance structural integrity. The raft foundation was deepened and widened, ensuring stability. Additionally, the concrete's resistance to acids and alkali was improved, and waterproofing measures were increased by 30%. The use of caulk highly resistant to acids and alkali further enhances the durability of the structure.

The Gospel church spans an area of 496 square meters, providing ample space for worship and community activities. The design team, led by Shi Zhe Lo, meticulously analyzed climate and location data, conducted area planning research, and adhered to legal regulations. These efforts, along with wind tunnel testing, contributed to the successful completion of this project.

Overcoming various challenges, the designer made optimal use of the available land. Despite legal restrictions, the stairwell was transformed into a small greeting area, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenic views through transparent windows. To address the region's longer dry spell, a water storage facility capable of holding up to 20 tons of water was incorporated into the design. The building's shape facilitates natural ventilation, reducing the need for air conditioning, while LED lighting minimizes energy consumption.

The Gospel church not only serves as a place of worship but also stands as a distinctive landmark in the city. Its Chinese-style screen exterior, symbolizing strength and the Twelve Tribes of Israel, creates an intriguing aesthetic. The integration of Chinese cultural elements and Christian symbolism fosters a strong connection between people and the church. This design by Shi Zhe Lo exemplifies creativity, technical prowess, and a commitment to quality of life improvements.

Image Credits: Photographer Chi-Min Wu, Gospel, 2020.

Awards and Accolades: The Gospel design was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category in 2021. This prestigious award recognizes designs that demonstrate outstanding creativity and resourcefulness, incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology. The Gospel church design contributes to quality of life improvements, making the world a better place.