A wedding complex was planned along the Moto-Arakawa River in Koshigaya City, Saitama Prefecture in early 2020. However, after four years of delays due to COVID- 19, the project was finally completed in May 2024. The complex consists of two areas: a wedding building dedicated to ceremonies, and a shop building with wedding-related stores. The wedding building, which includes the chapel, has a maximum height of 19 m. The chapel roof is made with an interlocking flat design; thus, the roof and exterior wall are integrated seamlessly to create a sharp and solid shape.

The chapel is located on the second floor of the wedding building. The interior ceiling has a height of 11.87 m, and in contrast to the angular exterior, it has a softly curved shape. The chapel is named "St. Wave," inspired by the image of a veil that gently envelops the bride and groom. As they walk down the aisle, the waves of the veil appear to expand, and the fluttering fabric grows more expansive. This symbolizes happiness unfolding and flowing seamlessly toward the future, uninterrupted and boundless.

To evoke the undulating waves within the chapel, we designed a freestanding frame. The 8.5-m-high arched frame is composed of a set of steel pipes with a diameter of 54 mm, arranged in an inverted configuration. These pipes are connected by 17.3 mm-diameter steel pipes. The frame is then extended further, with two additional spans forming a total of eight spans, symbolizing the spreading waves. The frame stands independently, with horizontal connections providing structural integrity. The white frame creates a sacred atmosphere, like a delicate cloth drifting in the air. It softly diffuses light from outside and while absorbing the light from below, adding to the serene ambiance.

Team:

Design:  Kasahara Design Work

Other Participants: Yumiko Ota ＿ OTAdesign

Photography: Nacasa & Partners