The Chapel of Sound by Open. Photography by Jonathan Leijonhufvud, Beijing
The Chapel of Sound by Open. Photography by Jonathan Leijonhufvud, Beijing
The Chapel of Sound by Open. Photography by Jonathan Leijonhufvud, Beijing
The Chapel of Sound by Open. Photography by Jonathan Leijonhufvud, Beijing
Beijing – Tuning into the natural environment, the Chapel of Sound by Chinese architecture firm Open is informed by the atmosphere of the surrounding landscape. Taking sound as its key design principle, the concert hall charts a new path for sensorial architecture.
Intended to look like a stone that has rolled gently into place, the building has an organic shape that evokes comparisons with caves and seashells. Indeed, the architects took inspiration from the subtle reverberations and echoes of caverns when designing the building. Made of concrete that has been enriched with minerals and rocks from the local landscape, the curves of the building are sculpted in the shape of a sound wave.
Composed of an outdoor stage, amphitheatre, concert hall, viewing platforms and a green room, the Chapel of Sound has a clear view of the ruins of the Great Wall from the Ming Dynasty era.
While the building is designed to celebrate the union of nature and music, it is also meant to be used as a space of tranquillity, rest and rumination between concerts. Bridging entertainment with thoughtful relaxation, the building aligns itself with the tenets of Contemplative Spaces.
Strategic opportunity
Consumers are increasingly seeking silent spaces away from their homes to rest and ruminate. Instead of creating elaborate displays, retailers should consider maximising comfort and nature to create shopping sanctuaries
