31/10/2024
NWOKEJI
URBAN PLANNING
ARCHITECTURE STUDIOS .. bringing tomorrow's habitat for today's comfort...
OUR LADY OF FATIMA CENTENARY GROTTO AND PILGRIMAGE CENTER,
SHEDA, ABUJA.
DESIGNED:
By Arc Jerome Nwokeji principal consultant NUPAS LTD.
The design emerged through the fundamental basic conceptualization techniques of evolutionary bubbles - process to achieve a unique architectural masterpiece on a class of it's own, to stand the test of time. It is a vertical and horizontal upward spiral suspended form, originating from two steel columns and expanding as it evolves towards the sky. The final lap of the form terminates on a giant cross, rooted in a holy water fountain.
The status is in glass house between the two steel columns which is seated on the highest level of the circular alter area( one half of the circle) and the Alter table is the lower level of the sanctuary circle. The Alter is accessible from monumental circular steps circling it and giving it a unique grandeur effect.
The grotto is accessible from all sides.from the front elevation, it is approached through a long, wild,cross, shaped pedestrian walkway adorned on the side with the fourteen station of the cross. The entire form is symbolical depicting our lady in her role in Christianity as it upwardly culminating in the death and cruxification on the cross, of Our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ.
The second phase of the proposed development is a multi-purpose pilgrims complex, flowing from the Grotto, to accommodate pilgrims from far and near. The center has theatres, archives, different categories of lodging facilities, restaurant, library/bookshop etc, in the interwoven multi - Courtyards concept arrangements: inside flowing into outside and outside flowing onto inside, for serenity to enhance spirituality and ambiance of holiness. The efficient design, will reduce the cost of construction tremendously.