Notre-Dame du Haut

This architectural object is inspired by Notre-Dame du Haut, Le Corbusier's pilgrimage chapel at Ronchamp — a building of profound spiritual power whose sculptural concrete forms and mystical interior light represent his most poetic architectural expression.

Completed in 1955 on a hilltop in eastern France, the chapel departed radically from Le Corbusier's rationalist early work to create sacred architecture of extraordinary emotional depth. These qualities make it especially compelling when interpreted as a physical architectural object.

Read the full Notre-Dame du Haut architecture guide

Read the Le Corbusier architect guide

Built on a site of pilgrimage for over a millennium, Notre-Dame du Haut is defined by its upturned concrete shell roof, thick curved walls, and scattered jewel-like windows. Le Corbusier responded to what he called the site's irresistible genius loci — the "four horizons" visible from the hilltop and centuries of accumulated spiritual history.

This architectural model focuses on the elements that define the building's identity:

• the billowing concrete roof that appears to float above the walls
• the dramatic south wall with its irregular pattern of deeply splayed windows
• the sculptural massing and curved surfaces

By capturing the chapel's essential sculptural form, the object allows Le Corbusier's most expressive architectural vision to be experienced in three dimensions.

Notre-Dame du Haut translates particularly well into object form because its design is driven by:

• sculptural form rather than surface ornament
• the interplay between mass and light
• powerful silhouette and curved surfaces

At reduced scale, these principles remain intensely legible. The model becomes a study in how Le Corbusier used reinforced concrete's plastic possibilities to create architecture of profound spiritual and emotional power.

Rather than functioning as a miniature replica, this object captures the architectural essence of Notre-Dame du Haut.

Craft, materials, and finish

Each Notre-Dame du Haut object is crafted with an emphasis on form and presence. The finish is intentionally restrained, allowing the sculptural interplay of curved walls and upturned roof to define the piece — echoing the way Le Corbusier used rough béton brut to create sacred atmosphere.

The result is an object that sits naturally within:

• architectural and design studios
• curated interiors
• spaces celebrating modernist architecture

It appeals to architects, designers, and those drawn to sacred architecture, sculptural modernism, and Le Corbusier's late expressive work.

An object shaped by spiritual vision

Notre-Dame du Haut represents Le Corbusier's most radical departure from rationalist modernism — demonstrating that modern architecture could achieve sacred depth and emotional power whilst remaining resolutely contemporary. As an object, the building's spiritual dimension becomes tangible: architecture as poetry, concrete as sacred medium.

This piece offers a way to engage with one of the twentieth century's most moving buildings in a tactile, enduring form.

Product details

• Subject: Notre-Dame du Haut, Ronchamp, France
• Architect: Le Corbusier (Charles-Édouard Jeanneret)
• Architectural style: Late Modernism / Brutalism / Expressionist
• Original completion: 1955
• Designed and made by: Chisel & Mouse

Learn more about Notre-Dame du Haut

For a detailed exploration of the chapel's design, construction, spiritual significance, and revolutionary impact on sacred architecture, see our in-depth guide:

Notre-Dame du Haut Architecture: Le Corbusier's Sculptural Masterpiece

To explore Le Corbusier's life, architectural philosophy, and other major works including the Villa Savoye and Unité d'Habitation, visit:

Le Corbusier: Architect of the Machine Age