Church of Joy

Department of Architecture co. - Khet Khlong Toei, Thailand - 2023

Key words: Congregation, Covenant, Deuteronomy, Embracing, Facade, Light, Scripture, Symbolism

CRUCIFIX DETAIL - Photography: © SPACESHIFT STUDIO

The Church of Joy weaves light, materiality, and religion into a unified spiritual narrative. Using biblical symbolism, such as the cross, as a spiritual catalyst, the project evokes transcendental qualities through a dialogue of colour and fractal geometries. At night, the cross illuminates its presence across the local neighbourhood, acting as a radiant symbol of hope, guidance, and protection. Within the congregation hall, straw-fibre walls create a soft acoustic quality and thermally sound environment. The blend of earth-like materials draws worshippers closer to nature, offering a sense of familiarity and comfort.

Linking the project directly to biblical extracts helped guide the architect in creating a project that is symbolically resonant to the Christian faith:

Genesis 9:16: "Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures."

Matthew 5:14-15: "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house."