Movement Creates Space
Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design and University of Cape Town, Rondebosch · 2020
In collaboration with Arch. Eviatar Levi, Guided by Prof. Iain Low and Arch. Ron Gross
Non-Holiday Weekdays
St. Catherine’s Monastery is a major pilgrimage site with a routine of daily life and spikes during festive days. While movement and temporality dominate, the monastery offers stability. Our design addressed both by a tent inspired by Bedouin tents, fitting the climate and suitable for festivities. A seasonal stream near the monastery provides water in winter.
St. Catherine’s Monastery
Public vs. Private Space Diagram
Lessons from St. Catherine’s informed the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where the Holy Fire event occurs. The complex political status divides the church among denominations, with the Ethiopian Orthodox Church owning the roof. It serves as living space during regular days and a ritual site during Holy Fire. We highlighted the olive tree’s religious and spatial importance, improved living quarters, created shared spaces, and adapted the roof for large crowds during feasts.
Holy Fire
Floor Plan
1st Floor Plan
Section A-A
Section B-B