Rising From Ashes
Project
The competition, the church
Location
Kaliforniya, Amerika
Year
2026
Designers
İnci Shoainia, Emil Shoainia
Project Name
REVERENCE & REFUGE
Degree
Finalist, Special selection exhibition
This project was developed as part of the Rising from Ashes competition, which focuses on the reconstruction process following the devastating fires in Altadena, California.
The competition calls for the design of both a place of worship for 400 people and a public center that will re-establish social connections. “Reverence & Refuge” thus treats architecture not merely as the production of a structure, but as a tool for post-traumatic healing and resilience. By establishing a dual system between commemorating the loss of the past (reverence) and creating a safe haven for the future (refuge), the project transforms the space into a platform for both emotional and functional reconstruction.
SPATIAL ARCHITECTURE
The heart of the project revolves around the “Healing Court,” conceived as a center for social and psychological healing. This courtyard is not merely an open space, but a focal point where the community reunites and collective memory is shared. The entire spatial organization develops around this space, establishing a user experience on an introspective yet collective level.
DUAL FUNCTION SYSTEM
The "Resilience Canopy" structure proposed in the project is the most critical component of the system. Providing shade and serving as a memorial area in daily use, this structure rapidly transforms into an emergency shelter and support center in the event of a disaster. This approach transforms the architecture from a static object into a dynamic infrastructure adaptable to crisis scenarios.
ARCHITECTURAL LANGUAGE AND DURABILITY
The architectural language is deliberately designed with a simple and horizontal character. Large openings, glass surfaces, and the use of natural light create a continuous visual connection between the user and the improved landscape. Materials such as concrete, steel, and fire-resistant wood were chosen not only for their aesthetics but also for their safety and durability. This approach makes the structure a safe environment, both physically and psychologically.
