| Title |
A Study on the Characteristics of the Natural Light in the St. Maria Church by Alvaro Siza |
| DOI |
https://doi.org/10.14774/JKIID.2019.28.5.034 |
| Keywords |
Santa Maria Church; Natural Light; Spatial Configuration |
| Abstract |
The purpose of this study is to find out how the characteristics of light use are presented in the Santa Maria church, a representative religious building of Alvaro Siza. The space composition of the church and its effects from the introduction of light, and how the use of such light gives the church a sense of existence. It also explores the architectural significance of the light-use characteristics of the Santa Maria church. In spite of the classic symmetrical appearance and plan type, Siza made a change in the interior space with natural light through the size, location and shape of various openings. The inner atmosphere of the church changes entirely with the change of natural light flowing in. At the ground level where the main hall is located, light provides different characteristics inside the cathedral through three largely different paths. Light from the three openings in the northwest is responsible for the illumination of the entire church, while the opening in the southeast serve to attract outside foregrounds from within, in addition to lighting effects. Two vertical openings made behind the altar are installed inside the double wall to diffuse the light coming in from the exterior wall upper glazing, providing a subtle and mysterious atmosphere. As such, the reason why the Santa Maria church has a special architectural character in many ways is because Siza’s efforts to experience religion with light and space were well expressed.
It is also the result of the architect’s powerful architectural intents, which introduced the order of classical architecture but instead tried to form a changeable interior, combined with changing natural light. |