in the wake of the devastating fire that ravaged paris? notre dame cathedral, a number of architects and designers have presented proposals suggesting how the church could be rebuilt. the response of paris-based architect vincent callebaut seeks to bring science, art, and spirituality together. inspired by biomimicry, the design hopes to establish a fairer symbiotic relationship between humans and nature.

all images courtesy of vincent callebaut architectures
 
 
titled ?palingenesis?, a name derived from the greek word for ?rebirth?, vincent callebaut?s design aims to unite the cathedral?s nave, roof, and new spire. from the four gables, the original geometry of the 10-meter-high attic has been respected. meanwhile, the building?s triangular section and steep 55-degree pitched roofs gradually stretch to shape a vertical spire.
the new wooden frame is covered with a three-dimensional crystal glass canopy
 
 
constructed with cross laminated timber beams pre-stressed with carbon fiber slats, the new oak frame seeks to use the minimum amount of material to ensure a low-carbon footprint while offering the greatest transparency. ?transparency, sharing, and openness to our society?s development: such are the ideas conveyed by this new, diaphanous forest of notre dame, outlining the new face of the church in the 21st century,? callebaut explains.

vincent callebaut?s design seeks to bring science, art, and spirituality together
 
 
the cathedral?s restoration would trans...