Multifaith Chaplaincy, University of Surrey

This proposal for a new building for the multifaith chaplaincy at the University of Surrey was developed in response to an invitation to a limited competition.

The Context
All faiths exist to guide people in their relationships with one another. The three major faiths represented in this chaplaincy are founded from the same root: They share three great patriarchs in Abraham, Moses and Jacob, the same creation story and four books of law. All the faiths have a strong tradition of learning and scholarship. They have so many things in common but they are also, importantly, distinctly different.

The University of Surrey has been founded to bring people together and help them build relationships, understanding and respect.

The Concept
The building brings together a series of distinct religious spaces which are respected and celebrated through light and materials – their texture, colour and even their smell. The expressed religious volumes are contained within a single vessel and beneath a unifying roof – a greater whole. Between the religious volumes interstitial spaces are created, unusual and interesting spaces, large spaces and small quiet spaces. These are spaces for people to meet and share ideas, food and festivals. In all religions the sharing of food is a significant act, even a responsibility.

It is appropriate then that this meeting space opens up to the university to welcome people in to share food and ideas, celebration and contemplation in the café. A place to come and talk, laugh or read a book.

The building celebrates what all the religions have in common and can offer the University and the wider world while at the same time respecting and celebrating each religion as a unique and valuable faith.