Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption at Karwar, Karnataka

This building attempts to create a protective sky supported by tree like structures (each tree representing an apostle) over a Roman amphi-theathre like space (where early Christian gatherings actually started).

One enters the building at an elevation and progressively moves down to a sky lit alter close to the far end. This step nature also allows the parishioners a better view / participation, where the steps can also be sat on, reducing the clutter of furniture. The higher platforms has Chapels and Meeting Halls below and the slightly lower ones were supposed to have an underground air cooling system.

The roof is independent of the peripheral walls of the building with the gap between the two being protected by the deep overhangs.

The seating layout is flexible allowing for gatherings of different sizes from congregations of 50 beyond the Altar, 150 around the Altar, 1,000 in the tiered space and 2,000 in the open forecourt of the building, where the entrance platform becomes the Altar.

The Sacraments in Christianity are also represented in the transition through the building, starting with the Baptismal Font close to the entrance - From Birth to Death and New Life.

 CATHEDRAL

CATHEDRAL 

 CATHEDRAL

 CATHEDRAL