Copenhagen to build new church
New church in Sydhavnen
The new church will be ideal for relaxation and contemplation. Photo: Jaja Architects, www.ja-ja-dk.
Copenhagen is building a new church – for the first time since 1989. The church will have an outward focus inviting people to enjoy the new building for both religious/spiritual and recreational activities.
It will be designed as an upward-moving spiral walkway, inviting visitors to ascend to the top to enjoy a great view over the harbour. The spiral colonnade along the façade will include terraces with water-filled basins and water gardens promising an ideal location for relaxation and contemplation. The church can be experienced as an inner and an outer movement.
Jury and parish council chair, Lone Rasmussen, says:
"For us it is important to build a church that architecturally fits into the surroundings and simultaneously we aim to preserve the old atmosphere of Sydhavnen (South Harbour). We would rather have a church that reflects the motley 'Sydhavnen spirit' than a large prestigious tourist attraction."
Rasmussen continues:
"We hope that everyone in South Harbour will accept the church as their own and use it both in daily life and for celebrations."
The Danish firm JAJA Architects won the competition to design the new church, which will be located in the Teglholmen harbour area and is expected to be finished in June 2019.
