JAJA Architects, a Danish firm, recently won a competition to design and build a new parish church in the Syndhavnen district of Copenhagen, marking the first new church to be built in the Danish capital in 27 years. The winning design features a white facade with stacked volumes that decrease concentrically in size and that have slight, almost imperceptible slants along their horizontal lines.
The slant of JAJA Architects' design has a function beyond its interesting aesthetic. The gradually canted floors allow the entire church to be devoid of steps. This means that, on a pragmatic level, the building will be completely wheelchair-friendly. Further, from the perspective of artistic meaning, the continuous ramp symbolizes ascension.
Slightly Slanted Churches
JAJA Architects' Design is the First Church in Copenhagen in 27 Years
Trend Themes
1. Accessible Architecture - The use of gradually canted floors in building design creates wheelchair-friendly spaces and improves accessibility.
2. Inclusive Design - Architecture that eliminates steps and incorporates ramps promotes inclusivity and accommodates individuals with mobility challenges.
3. Symbolic Structures - Designs incorporating meaningful elements, such as continuous ramps symbolizing ascension, add depth and storytelling to architectural spaces.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - Architects, designers, and construction companies can embrace accessible and inclusive design principles to create spaces that cater to a diverse range of needs.
2. Construction - Construction firms can specialize in incorporating universal design features, like gradually canted floors, to meet accessibility requirements and enhance the functionality of buildings.
3. Religious Institutions - Religious organizations can explore innovative architectural designs that not only serve as places of worship but also incorporate meaningful symbolism to enrich the spiritual experience of their congregations.