Tectonic character in Tadao Ando’s Church of the Light: Structure, space, and form

Tadao Ando is one of the most important figures in modern architecture, combining minimalist design with traditional Japanese aesthetics, and is known for the use of light in spatial and spiritual contexts. The Church of the Light is one of his well-known projects, reflecting his architectural philosophy and design approach. This paper primarily examines the relationship between the structural form, architectural space, tectonic character, materiality, and detailing in the Church of the Light. Particularly, the paper analyzes the use of materials and the interplay between structure and architectural space in Ando's design. This analysis is based on the taxonomy proposed by Chad Schwartz in his book “Introducing Architectural Tectonics: Exploring the Intersection of Design and Construction”, which includes Place, Precedent, Space, Anatomy, Stereotomic, Tectonic, Representation, and Detail as the primary principles constituting the concept of tectonics. The analysis sections and the findings discuss how Ando’s tectonic sensibility transforms raw materials and the use of light into an experiential and spiritual architectural space. Additionally, the study offers a deeper understanding of Ando’s architectural approach by examining the Church of the Light.