Set within the Bosjes Estate, the Bosjes Kapel was designed by Coetzee Steyn of Steyn Studio. It has also been named one of this year's five Special Honorees, which include renowned international practices Heatherwick Studio and Mecanoo. The title of Special Honoree is awarded to key influencers and projects, chosen for their extraordinary contribution to the field of architecture. The award highlights projects that champion architecture’s potential to positively impact everyday life.
Inspired by the scriptures of Psalm 36:7, the chapel has a serene sculptural form that emulates the silhouette of the surrounding Slanghoek and Waaihoek mountain ranges, paying tribute to the Cape Dutch gables found in the rural landscapes of the Western Cape. Constructed from a slim concrete cast shell, the roof supports itself as each undulation dramatically falls to meet the ground. Surrounded by meditative gardens, the glass-walled chapel’s flowing white roof appears to float serenely in a reflection pond.
Inside, highly polished terrazzo reflects light internally. The undulating whitewashed ceiling casts an array of shadows which dance within the volume as light levels change throughout the day. The modest palette of materials creates a neutral background to the impressive framed views of the vineyards and mountain beyond.
“From my very first meeting with the client I knew something truly special was going to happen, and it did. It is a great honour to be included amongst some of the world’s best architecture; and, being rooted in the platteland myself, also very humbling, especially because of the support and recognition the Bosjes Kapel has received,” commented Steyn.
