Noah’s Ark in 21st Century | Church of Sky
Architect Itami Jun, also known by his Korean name Yoo Dong-ryong (庾東龍) and recognized for his prominent work, the Ark Church, located in Seogwipo, Jeju Island, Korea, has achieved global acclaim. The Ark Church, often referred to as the ‘Church in the Sky,’ is renowned for its striking resemblance to Noah’s Ark and its unique location, which gives the impression of floating on water.
Itami Jun, a Korean residing in Japan, adopted his active name, Itami Jun, as a tribute to both the Japanese pronunciation of the composer Gil Ok-yoon’s Yun (潤) and the name of Osaka’s Itami Airport. His remarkable contributions to architecture have earned him several prestigious accolades, including the Best Picture Award from the Institute of Japanese Architects in 2001, the Chevalier of the French Order of Arts and the Legion of Honor in 2005, the Kim Swoo-geun Cultural Award from Korea in 2006, the Excellence Award from the Korea Architectural Culture Awards in 2008, and the Murano Dogo Award, the highest architectural honor in Japan, which he received as a Korean living in Japan in 2010.
Noah’s Ark?
The Ark Church’s exterior features a captivating design that seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings. The church’s zinc metal roof creates intricate geometric patterns that gleam beautifully in the sunlight. The artificial lake surrounding the church resembles Noah’s Ark and imparts a sensation of the structure floating on water. This innovative use of water space allows for the reflection of the moving clouds, imparting a dynamic quality to the building. In a departure from conventional design, the cross is positioned as a window to facilitate the flow of wind, rather than being prominently displayed atop the roof.
Warm wooden chapel
The interior of the chapel, accommodating 5-60 people, reflects Itami Jun’s commitment to simplicity and harmony. The play of light among the wooden pillars creates a serene and sacred atmosphere. The minimalist podium and chairs contribute to the uncluttered ambiance, while the subtle floral adornments and strategically placed greenery add a refreshing touch to the space. This aesthetic juxtaposition between the ornate exterior and the serene interior is one of the most striking features of the chapel.
Architect Jun Itami’s architectural philosophy, characterized by a deep integration of the built environment with the lives of those inhabiting it, is carried forward at ITM, the architectural firm led by his daughter, Architect Yu Ehwa.