Wamberal Funeral Chapel & Crematorium – Joel Fitzgerald – November 2009

Wamberal Funeral Chapel & Crematorium – Joel Fitzgerald

MCHP Architects congratulate Joel Fitzgerald, who is now in his fifth year with our practice, on his excellent final year Masters of Architecture project.

The projects design presents a series of spaces defined by striking linear walls, projecting through and from the earth towards the ocean’s horizon, seemingly expressing life’s journey and an infinite future, while also capturing the tranquility and soulful reflective qualities of the site.

The building form and materials express the earth, texture, water and open to lagoon and ocean vistas. It would seem those attending the chapel are guided by the building, rather than overwhelmed or controlled, allowing them the space for their own contemplation, reflection and connection with nature, life and death.

The scheme has been part of the AV exhibition at Newcastle University and Paddington Town Hall.

“…the walls of the complex are a subtle, sensitive representation of life where patterns of domestic wallpaper cast into the walls remind us of how we may live our habitual lives in the suburbs. At the same time, the walls will eternally house the memory of the imprint, residual of the original formwork. From within the spaces, natural light is directed to cast over the surface of the walls, projecting shadows to characterise the passing of time and life.” Joel Fitzgerald