Højvangen Church, the first church to be built in Skanderborg Parish in over 500 years, will be a new public gathering point in the growing residential area of Højvangen in Skanderborg, Denmark. The 1,500 m2 (16,146 ft2) church is a tribute to the local landscape and the Danish building tradition, while also paving the way for a more modern church experience.
Flexible spaces that can form a backdrop for both religious ceremonies as well as community events inspire new ways of using the church and expand its typical functions. “With the new church in Højvangen, we want to be true to the theological tradition and at the same time reinterpret the church as a destination for present and future needs; a place that can accommodate both everyday life and celebrations, joy and mourning across generations,” says partner Nina la Cour Sell.
Image © Henning Larsen
From the outside, the building appears as a squared pavilion, connected to the already existing church center through a partially underground corridor. Contrary to the traditional church nave, Højvangen has no apparent front or back. The large square church room can be adapted to hold a range of events, with varying degrees of intimacy and openness enabled by the angled wall design.
Traditional materials such as brick, oak and brass create a peaceful and timeless atmosphere, ensuring the church’s longevity in the community for generations. The competition proposal has been made in close collaboration with Architect Espen Surnevik, Schul Landskab and Rambøll. Højvangen Church is expected to be inaugurated on the 1st Sunday of Advent 2024. Source and images Courtesy of Henning Larsen.
Image © Henning Larsen 
Image © Henning Larsen 
Image © Henning Larsen