Brother Claus Field Chapel
Peter Zumthor
Mechernich, Germany
Photo © Thomas Mayer
The recently inaugurated Brother Claus Field Chapel is located in Mechernich near Cologne, Germany.
The Chapel, dedicated to the holy Niklaus von Fluehe, called
Brother Claus, was donated by farmer Hermann-Josef and Trudel
Scheidtweilerand, and built by local farmers on the edge of his
field.
Photo © Thomas Mayer
Zumthor used a technique called "rammed concrete" where farmers
poured a layer of concrete over a teepee of timber every day for 24
days, leaving a texture similar to that of rammed earth. The timber
was then burnt out by colliers, using the same process as making
charcoal, leaving a charred inside.
Photo © Thomas Mayer
Photo © Thomas Mayer
The chapel is entered through a pivoted triangular lead door.
The floor is poured lead.
Photo © Thomas Mayer
Photo © Thomas Mayer
Photo © Thomas Mayer
An oculus at the top is open to the sky letting in rain and light. Filtered light also enters through holes in the walls.
Photo © Thomas Mayer
Photo © Thomas Mayer
Photo © Thomas Mayer
Last updated: December 17, 2012
See also
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BookcaseBuilding Up and Tearing Down
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BookcaseWhy Architecture Matters
