In September 2017, a devastating earthquake severely damaged or destroyed all of Jojutla’s colonial heritage.
We were given the opportunity to design and build a new small church on the site where a previous one once stood. Our approach was to reconstruct the memories of the past by applying modern architectural techniques, creating an anchor point for the people, traditions, and heritage of this community.
Walking through and pausing to find a quiet corner for sacred contemplation, crossing roads where light and silence intersect—such moments bring a profound stillness.
How deeply healing it is.
The building features a rotating dome formed by four arches with parabolic or oval contours. This circular, open space created by the rotating arches allows natural light to flow through above the congregation.
△ Roof Plan
The dome is supported by eight triangular pillars that form eight semi-circular arches. These arches include water troughs at their junctions to channel water downward, preventing stagnation between the vertices.
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Section Diagram
As shown in the project sketches, the construction of La Capilla de la Santa Cruz follows the same concept as the Jojutla School, also designed by Alberto Kalach. The use of arches in both structures reflects considerations of safety and structural resilience.
△ Architect’s Sketch
△ Architect’s Sketch
For durability and practicality, exposed concrete was chosen to reveal the formwork marks. The concrete’s reddish hue contrasts beautifully with and frames the local sky.
The floor continues this earthy color scheme, designed as a mosaic forming a star shape at the core, radiating from the central axis.
△ Plan View
The church features three west-facing entrances, each with double doors that preserve the natural wood texture and color. The furniture inside complements this design with matching principles.
The windows feature matte black metal grilles with vertical lines, creating a rhythmic pattern alongside wooden crosses.
Project Information
Architect: Roberto Silva, Taller de Arquitectura X / Alberto Kalach
Area: 141 m²
Project Year: 2018
Photographer: Jaime Navarro
Constructor: DICONTECH
Supervisor: Miguel Ángel Rojas
Structural Engineering: GMA Arquitectura e Ingeniería, Ing. Mario Romero
Water Supply and Drainage Engineering: Ing. Arq. Humberto Andrade
Electrical Engineering: Ing. Ericka Azpeitia
City: Jojutla de Juárez
Country: Mexico
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