Contemporary AppealsCi Zhong Tang is said to have the most controversial religious building design in the 1980s. Representatives from Akitek Tenggara worked closely in consultation with Grandmaster Huang Lao Xian Shi through his medium and interpreters on the intricacies of the design throughout the planning phase of the temple development.
The grandmaster concurred with the architects to adopt a contemporary design to keep up with the contemporary expectations and developments of people over time. Basically, it was agreed that the temple has to be airy, and light in perception. The building were to use contemporary materials and aesthetics. More importantly, the pyramidal roof of the temple should not have sharp corners ( sha chi or qi in feng shui beliefs ). The corners were, instead, chamfered in deference to residents in the vicinity. The roof-top is fitted with a lotus-like system of mirrors or optic devices to reflect light into the altar area. |
The temple has an area of 700 square metres, and comprises two storeys. The first level comprises a multi-purpose hall, kitchen, storerooms, meeting room, restrooms, and offices while the second storey caters to praying needs and facilities.
The second storey has a mezzanine-like floor comprising the altar, worship and consultation area. |
The symmetrical pitched roof is clad with copper sheets, and the joints are crimped and welded to prevent water from seeping through.
Copper sheets will develop a greenish patina over time, and accentuate the monumentality of it pyramidal structure. The heavily-rusticated base effectively supports the strong roof geometry. The columns supporting the roof are deeply recessed from the roof perimeter, giving the impression of the roof floating over the podium. This perception is more effective at dusk when the roof appears to be supported on a band of light which bursts forth, volcano-like, through the oculus at the apex.
Copper sheets will develop a greenish patina over time, and accentuate the monumentality of it pyramidal structure. The heavily-rusticated base effectively supports the strong roof geometry. The columns supporting the roof are deeply recessed from the roof perimeter, giving the impression of the roof floating over the podium. This perception is more effective at dusk when the roof appears to be supported on a band of light which bursts forth, volcano-like, through the oculus at the apex.