Wilcox Memorial Hospital
Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii
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Architect: HKS Architects, Dallas, TX; Phyllis Infanzon, AIA
Altar, Cross, Star of David & Dharmakakra
3.0' w. by up to 4.4' h.each
As often happens meditation chapels in healthcare facilities are often relegated to interior areas lacking windows. This was the case even in scenic Kauai. Subtly backlighting these “windows” by reflecting ambient light back out through mirror adds an expansive sense of spatial flow.
The four “windows” in this interdenominational chapel include a layer of stained glass over mirror. The resultant reflections feel like actual exterior windows with reflections instead of actual views.
The universal Altar Window introduces a transcendent plane of spiritual enlightenment rising from the drapery-like shroud of night sky representing the material world. Along the sides of the chapel three similar “windows” that represent each of the three predominant religions of Hawaii and all three include the circular transcendent plane.
The starry, shroud of the material world enfolds the circular plane of each of the three side “window” so that the predominant symbol for each religion remains visible (i.e. the Buddhist Dharmakakra, the Christian Cross and the Jewish Star of David).
The drapery-like shrouds of night sky are layered to create a three dimensional appearance. The circular discs are framed with recessed mirror that allows these “windows” to self-illuminate, revealing the rich and sparkling beauty of mouthblown glass.
Materials: German mouthblown glass with etching, dichroic glass, mirror, lead, solder. Wall-mounted.
