wilson architects deconstructs kooroomba chapel in the australian outback

positioned in the vast and scenic landscape of queensland, australia, sits the latest work from wilson architects titled ‘kooroomba chapel’. the project, which was conceived for kooroomba vineyard & lavender farm, is designed as an events space for special occasions. situated against an impressive mountain backdrop, the small, timber frame building intends to explore the natural setting and provide a strong sense of place to visitors who come to the picturesque site.

image © alex chomicz (also main image)

the form of the building is easily recognisable as a place of worship and is described as wilson architects as being ‘non-denominational’. elements such as the bell tower, the nave and the alter all make reference to chapels found in queensland, however, the design takes leave from this traditional idea of religious architecture by deconstructing it. to evoke the idea of a ruin left abandoned in the landscape, the architect exposes the four walls of the chapel, blurring the line between the indoor and outdoor environment.

image © alex chomicz

the timber structural frame of the building is left unclad, exposing visitors to the scenic landscape that surrounds them and allowing greenery to grow up and take over the volume. upon entering, guests will align with a large ‘window’ frame that provides a view out to one of the mountain peaks in the distance. for weddings, couples will stand on the small platform at the alter with this incredible view, and to celebrate, the bell in the translucent tower will ring out across the australian outback.

image © alex chomicz

covering a total area of 1291.67 ft2 (120 m2), this subtle intervention makes a striking image on the landscape. designed to evoke the notion of an ancient ruin, the chapel provides the perfect setting for a special event as the architecture embraces, and quite literally exposes visitors to, the natural environment.