2024 - LIGHT WELL

People living in the centres of big cities are in a constant rush, chasing tomorrow, which makes them inattentive to the here and now. The issues of overstimulation and the inability to focus are compounded by the fact that it is difficult to find quiet and peaceful places in the inner city. Wyspa Piasek (Sand Island), despite being an important pedestrian, bicycle, and tram link, is one of the few places in the center of Wrocław free from the ubiquitous street noise. There are two churches, walking boulevards, and an outdoor sculpture „Żywy Pomnik ARENA” (Alive Monument ARENA) by Jerzy Bereś.

The aim of the project is to emphasize the contemplative nature of the site by highlighting the existing Jerzy Bereś’ sculpture on the island and creating a place to reflect and escape from stimuli. The pavilion is designed as a main aisle with an oculus in the ceiling, surrounded by cube rooms as chashitsu for the Japanese tea ceremony and a tea shop. There are many benches placed inside and outside, where we can sit leaning against the wall with a cup of tea and enjoy the simple play of chiaroscuro.

By isolating ourselves from external views and limiting the amount of light, we can focus on the single beams of light breaking through the darkness and give ourselves time for introspection, in accordance with the philosophy of sadō (The Way of Tea).