The Señor San Jose Chapel in Southern Leyte is a 400-square-meter religious structure designed in the Brutalist style. The design utilizes raw, cast-in-place concrete as both its primary structural element and its central aesthetic feature. Its facade is defined by sharp, angular planes that form a geometric, multi-faceted surface, emphasizing the material’s monolithic nature.
A central design element is the large cross-shaped void integrated into the main concrete wall, serving as a symbolic focal point and functional entrance. The roof system consists of staggered, overlapping concrete slabs that provide horizontal breaks to the structure’s verticality. To the right, a slender concrete bell tower rises, housing a traditional bell within a rectangular aperture.
At night, interior lighting highlights the concrete’s texture and the depth of the recessed entry. Because the region is prone to typhoons and earthquakes, the massive concrete form provides essential structural mass and wind resistance to withstand natural catastrophes. This project focuses on the honest expression of materials, maintaining a neutral palette that reflects the environment while providing a resilient presence within the community.
Disclaimer: The final design may be subject to adjustments during construction due to material availability or client requests.
