Write an essay (at least ONE page) in which you compare the Ancient Roman Temple in FIGURE F with the contemporary church in FIGURE G - NSC Design - Question 3 - 2023 - Paper 1

The Temple of Hephaestus reflects Greek mythology, particularly inspired by Hephaestus, the god of fire and craftsmanship. The Chamber Church, designed by Büro Ziyu Zhuang, is inspired by the need for a modern space that fosters community safety and connection, drawing from traditional Christian church influences.

The Temple was constructed using Pentelic and Parian marble, with structural elements that incorporate classical Greek architectural techniques. The Chamber Church, on the other hand, employs modern construction materials such as reinforced gypsum and metal beams, allowing for innovative design features like the cave-like interior.

The decoration of the Temple of Hephaestus includes sculpted reliefs that depict historical themes and religious motifs, while the Chamber Church maintains a minimalist aesthetic with limited decorative elements, focusing instead on the interaction of light and space.

The layout of the Temple features a lengthy axis and a symmetrical layout dominated by a colonnade, reflective of Greek temple design. Conversely, the Chamber Church's layout is characterized by a flowing, organic form that encourages movement and interaction, symbolizing the relationship between spirituality and modern community dynamics.