May 4, 2025
MOTIV Architects has shared photos of a small memorial chapel they completed in a Canadian forest.
Sited within the A Rocha Brooksdale Environmental Centre, this small memorial chapel is nestled down on the banks of a river with beautiful views of the forest all around.
The small building has been named the Meristem Chapel. Meristem refers to plant tissue that begins the growth of new cells and seedlings at the tip of roots and shoots. The name is symbolic of regeneration and renewal and connects to the chapel’s primary function of silent retreat.
The structure is a simple nail-laminated moment frame, made using salvaged dimensional lumber.
The structure is simple and honest, with the timber exposed as the final interior finish. The exterior is clad with cedar shingles, drawing from the material palette of the historic farm buildings on the property, and weathering like the bark of the forest that surrounds it.
Gaps at the top of the interlocking timbers create 12 skylights along the structure’s ridge, allowing dappled forest light to enter the space and views up into the forest canopy.
In addition to the skylights, windows have been included on both ends, with a small window above the door, and a matching small window and a larger picture window on the opposite wall.
Inside, there’s room for a few chairs, and a built-in bench makes the most of the views through the picture window.
Here’s a closer look at the skylights and wood ceiling.
Photography by Luc Di Pietro | Architect: MOTIV Architects – Philip Hurrell | Builder: Nofziger Construction | Structural Engineer: Aspect Structural Engineers