Henning Larsen create dynamic gathering space for growing community

A new church located on the outskirts of Skanderborg in Denmark has been completed, with a design by Tenderstream member Henning Larsen that brings together lasting materials, Danish building tradition, and a modern approach to spirituality in order to establish a dynamic gathering place for a growing residential community.

The new 1500 sq m building – the first church built in the parish for 500 years - brings a contemporary touch to the traditional Danish church typology. Designed as an open and welcoming space, it supports both religious services and everyday community use. Materials such as brick, oak, and brass draw from Denmark’s architectural heritage, creating a peaceful and timeless atmosphere for current and future generations. With flexible spaces and a focus on daylight and connection, the church honours tradition while offering a modern, communal setting for gathering.

By activating the interior space, the large square church room can be transformed to suit a range of purposes and events, with varying degrees of intimacy and openness enabled by the angled wall design. The baptismal font is the only permanent fixture, forming the structure’s centre piece. Similarly, the church’s façade is activated on all sides, fitted with covered seating niches, allowing visitors and worshippers to take a secluded moment to seek peace, converse, or look out to the surrounding nature. In close collaboration with Brdr. Krüger, Henning Larsen took the reinterpretation of the church a step further by redesigning church seating. Instead of the usual benches, individual chairs were created, making the space more flexible and adaptable for various events. 

Lucy Nordberg
Tenderstream Head of Research

This tender was first published by Tenderstream on 11.12.2020 here

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