UBUMWE CHAPEL

In Rwandan history, the church serves as a fort, offering protection against violence for those in need.

The chapel's entrance consists of two immense walls, inviting visitors to enter a transitional passage leading downwards into the heart of the building. The centrally planned holy nave focuses on building a safe space to unite the community by eliminating traditional hierarchies with the simplest interior design. In this space, the only connection to the outer world is the sky. The exit, in opposition to the entrance, there is a short passage through which community members can leave the building together.

The chapel is located on top of the hill, in the middle of the clearing. This site enables visitors coming from any direction to see the building and hear its calling from a distance. As the space is roofless, the singing of the Christian community can be heard from far away, creating an inviting atmosphere for all the people in the area. The chapel is built of rammed earth, a traditional, eco-conscious solution made of local materials to convey a sense of safety and groundedness.