keil space merges sacred architecture and sensory design in florence

Keil Space: A Contemporary Temple of Sculpture and Light

Located in Florence, Keil Space is an art and architectural project developed by the Keil Foundation and artist Sam Keil. The space functions as a contemporary interpretation of a temple, integrating architecture, sculpture, and sensory design into an environment aimed at fostering contemplation and heightened perception.

Keil Space is conceived as both a sculptural work and a sequence of interconnected rooms. The design employs darkened surfaces, controlled cuts of light, and metallic textures reminiscent of oxidized bronze. Spatial rhythm is emphasized through fluid transitions rather than linear circulation, giving each room a distinct character shaped by geometry, light, and acoustics. Scents and tonal variations are also incorporated, creating an environment that operates as a multisensory composition.

At the core of the project is a collection of bronze works by Sam Keil, presented across three ‘Generations.’

First Generation emphasizes form, movement, and vitality; Second Generation explores light and shadow as active sculptural elements; and New Generation introduces imagery connected to galaxies, biodiversity, and organic systems. These series are arranged to create a progression that guides visitors through varying perceptual and emotional states, transforming the building into an architectural landscape of shifting experiences.

Columns of the Truth | all images courtesy of © Keil Space Florence

Sam Keil Integrates Sensory Design and Architecture

Keil Space aligns itself with a longstanding tradition of architecture designed for spiritual or contemplative use. While ancient monuments employed alignments, symbolic forms, and material permanence to connect with the cosmos, Keil Space takes a contemporary approach, focusing on abstraction, sensory perception, and psychological effect. The building functions as a neutral but active container, where art and architecture merge to encourage inward reflection.

To evaluate its effect on visitors, Keil Space collaborated with QDAS, a UK-based qualitative research organization. Over 750 participants between the ages of 8 and 85 were interviewed. Findings indicated consistent outcomes, including sharpened sensory perception, increased awareness of subtle details, and a heightened sense of connection with surroundings. The study positioned the space as an environment that can support introspection and self-discovery.

Keil Space demonstrates how architecture can extend beyond utility and aesthetics to explore questions of spirituality and human psychology. By prioritizing experience over doctrine, artist Sam Keil proposes a model for secular yet contemplative space. The project situates architecture as a medium capable of connecting individuals with broader notions of time, perception, and the infinite.

Keil Space Florence for Advanced Art & its Application by Sam Keil

Keil Space in Florence merges art and architecture in a contemporary temple

Columns of the Truth and Lovers

rchitecture, sculpture, and sensory design combine in a space for contemplation

Keil Space functions as both a sculptural work and an architectural sequence

metallic textures recall the qualities of oxidized bronze

darkened surfaces contrast with controlled cuts of light

fluid transitions replace linear circulation to shape spatial rhythm

Lovers, First Generation Bronze by Sam Keil

Sabre, Second Generation Bronze by Sam Keil

project info:

name: Keil Space
designer: Sam Keil | @keil.space

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom

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