Wanaka Catholic Church / Sarah Scott Architects Ltd

Wanaka Catholic Church / Sarah Scott Architects Ltd - FacadeWanaka Catholic Church / Sarah Scott Architects Ltd - Windows, ChairWanaka Catholic Church / Sarah Scott Architects Ltd - WindowsWanaka Catholic Church / Sarah Scott Architects Ltd - Image 5 of 14Wanaka Catholic Church / Sarah Scott Architects Ltd - More Images+ 9

Wanaka Catholic Church / Sarah Scott Architects Ltd - Image 5 of 14
© Karen Dennis

Text description provided by the architects. The site is located in Wanaka set on a suburban island surrounded by a broad and immediate panorama of the NZ Southern Alps.

Wanaka Catholic Church / Sarah Scott Architects Ltd - Facade
© Tony Brunt

The building’s organic form alludes to the mountains that surround it. Solid walls of masonry dressed in simple plaster sweep from the entry, widening to embrace the congregation before curving inwards and focusing on the semi circular apse containing the altar. The floating leaf form of the roof inclined towards the altar rises skyward further emphasizing attention in this direction.

Wanaka Catholic Church / Sarah Scott Architects Ltd - Windows, Chair
© Tony Brunt

The interior is illuminated by natural lighting that enters through a narrow glazed clerestory ribbon that widens as it progresses towards the sanctuary subtly shifting angles to emphasise focus towards the altar. The ribbon windows offer the faithful a view of the surrounding mountains. The landscape and its changing moods are quietly present as a living backdrop to the service.

Wanaka Catholic Church / Sarah Scott Architects Ltd - Image 14 of 14
Section

Project gallery

See allShow less

Project location

Address:Wanaka, New Zealand

Click to open map
Location to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.
About this office
Cite: "Wanaka Catholic Church / Sarah Scott Architects Ltd" 19 Sep 2013. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/428883/wanaka-catholic-church-sarah-scott-architects-ltd> ISSN 0719-8884

You've started following your first account!

Did you know?

You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.