Bio // DOME // Stic — A Sustainable Architecture Approach to Sacred Landscape Integration

Bio // DOME // Stic is a forward-thinking sustainable architecture proposal that redefines the relationship between religion, ecology, and community. Developed as an Honorable Mention entry for the Eco-Chapel competition by Jeremy Chan, Wai Ching Lo, and KaCheong Chan, the project positions architecture as a mediator between indigenous nature and collective spiritual experience.

Set within the ecological and cultural context of Ethiopia, the design responds to the growing disconnect between urban populations and native landscapes. It proposes a system where architecture does not dominate nature, but instead operates as a catalyst for regeneration, education, and communal engagement.

Concept: Bridging Nature, Community, and Religion

At its core, the project is driven by a sustainable architecture strategy that integrates environmental restoration with spiritual infrastructure. The design emphasizes reconnecting communities with indigenous ecosystems while using religion as a cultural anchor.

The masterplan preserves existing vegetation and introduces a series of biodiverse plantation models. These act as ecological systems while simultaneously structuring spatial experience. The chapel remains the focal point, positioned centrally within a calm yet dynamic landscape that supports both contemplation and activity.

Rather than isolating the sacred, the design distributes meaning across the site, allowing nature itself to become part of the spiritual narrative.

Master Planning: The Tree Island System

A defining feature of this sustainable architecture proposal is the introduction of "Tree Islands"—circular landscape interventions that organize the site spatially and ecologically.

These islands:

• Preserve existing trees and enhance biodiversity
• Define movement through organic pedestrian pathways
• Create micro-ecosystems with distinct species compositions
• Act as buffers between urban surroundings and sacred space

The circulation system weaves through these islands, creating a fluid, non-linear journey. Pedestrian paths follow natural topography, encouraging exploration and gradual spatial transitions rather than rigid axial movement.

The Eco-Dome Strategy

The concept of the dome extends beyond architecture into landscape ecology. The project introduces "Eco-Domes"—plantation zones that metaphorically and functionally replicate dome structures using vegetation.

Seven domes are distributed across the site, referencing Orthodox Christian symbolism of the Seven Heavens. This dual interpretation allows the project to operate simultaneously at ecological and cultural levels.

These eco-domes:

• Support afforestation through controlled planting strategies
• Demonstrate biodiversity through varied species selection
• Act as educational environments for local communities
• Reinforce the symbolic relationship between heaven and earth

Over time, these zones evolve into dense ecological clusters, transforming the site into a living, adaptive landscape system.

Chapel Re-Design: Sacred Geometry and Material Intelligence

The chapel design follows traditional Orthodox architectural principles while adapting them through a sustainable architecture lens. The structure is composed of three primary elements: base, domes, and frame.

Spatial Organization

The chapel features a seven-dome configuration, symbolizing spiritual hierarchy and continuity. The main dome anchors the structure, while secondary domes articulate entrance points and circulation.

The interior space is conceived as a circular volume, enhancing collective gathering and reinforcing spiritual focus. Openings at the dome’s apex allow natural light to enter, creating dynamic illumination conditions throughout the day.

Material Strategy

Material selection is critical to the project’s sustainable architecture framework:

• Wooden Structural Frame: Provides a lightweight, breathable envelope that filters light and mediates temperature
• Agroconcrete Base: Reduces environmental impact by utilizing agro-based composite materials
• Compressed Thatch Finishes: Reflect local construction traditions while enhancing thermal performance
• Golden Ring Elements: Subtle symbolic references to Orthodox heritage, integrated into the dome structure

This combination of materials balances environmental responsibility with cultural continuity.

Landscape as Infrastructure

The project treats landscape not as decoration, but as primary infrastructure. The planting strategy is carefully developed to reflect native Ethiopian forest typologies, particularly the Dry Evergreen Afromontane Forest.

Species Selection

Selected species are:

• Native to the region
• Adapted to local climate conditions
• Capable of long-term ecological resilience

This ensures minimal maintenance while maximizing ecological performance.

Growth Timeline

The landscape is designed to evolve over time:

• Initial Phase: Sparse planting and nursery support
• 15 Years: Active canopy formation and biodiversity increase
• 30 Years: Mature forest ecosystem with layered vegetation

This temporal dimension positions the project as a long-term environmental intervention rather than a static architectural object.

Nursery System: A Regenerative Engine

A key innovation within this sustainable architecture proposal is the integration of a site-based nursery system. This functions as both an ecological and socio-economic driver.

The nursery:

• Produces saplings for on-site plantation
• Supports regional reforestation initiatives
• Acts as an educational platform for the community
• Enables self-sustaining landscape growth cycles

Over time, the site transforms into an afforestation hub, exporting plant material and knowledge to surrounding regions.

Community Integration and Program

The project extends beyond a religious facility to become a multifunctional community landscape. Programmatic elements include:

• Community center for education and events
• Open lawns for gathering and recreation
• Semi-open pavilions for shaded interaction
• Elevated walkways for immersive landscape experience

These interventions ensure continuous public engagement, making the site active throughout the day and across different user groups.

Environmental Performance

The sustainable architecture strategy is embedded across all scales of the project:

• Minimal built footprint to maximize natural ground
• Passive cooling through open structures and shading
• Reduced material usage through simplified structural systems
• Integration of ecological systems for long-term resilience

The design demonstrates how architecture can operate as a low-impact, high-performance system that enhances rather than depletes its environment.

Bio // DOME // Stic represents a compelling vision of sustainable architecture where spirituality, ecology, and community converge. By integrating landscape systems with architectural form, the project transcends conventional boundaries between built and natural environments.

It is not merely a chapel or a park, but a regenerative framework that evolves over time, fostering ecological awareness, cultural continuity, and collective belonging.

Through its layered approach to design, the project establishes a new paradigm for sacred architecture in the Anthropocene—one that is deeply rooted in place, responsive to climate, and oriented toward the future.