WE's proposal for the new church in Ørestad redefines traditional church use, transforming it into a versatile cultural and community hub. It merges spirituality with informal gatherings, providing a space for reflection, cultural events, local activities, and social interaction.

The architecture invites the community with a transparent façade and a soft-edged perimeter around the ceremonial space, creating a gradual transition from the outside world to the sacred interior. This design fosters a calming atmosphere, encouraging reflection and contemplation. Inspired by the ancient basilica, the traditional inward-facing colonnades are turned outward to form an open arcade that frames the church and supports diverse functions. The layout also draws from the basilica’s spatial hierarchy, with the main entrance leading through a courtyard enclosed by a pergola-like colonnade.

The entire church is unified by a monumental tiled roof, resembling a draped tent, supported by a light wooden colonnade with expansive glass partitions. Bricks on the façade highlight distinctive elements like the chapel and tower, appearing both as solid sections and in patterned designs. At the building’s core, rammed earth walls define the sacred space, offering a sense of permanence and separation from the lighter arcade that surrounds it.

Inside, the central church room features a dramatic inverted vaulted ceiling, creating a contrast between the transparent base and the heavy upward-striving roof, symbolically connecting heaven and earth. A large skylight at the apex filters light through wooden slats, softening its descent to create a serene and contemplative atmosphere.

The church of Ørestad harmonises sacred traditions with contemporary needs, offering a space where the community can gather, reflect, and celebrate life’s milestones.