Floating church

In February 2017, the architectural practice Denizen Works and boat-builders Turks, were awarded the commission from The Diocese of London to develop designs for a new floating church.

The bespoke floating hub is intended for London’s canal system, and will moor at key regeneration sites, to develop links with growing communities in the Mayor’s key Opportunity Areas.

Denizen’s brief was to provide a dramatic and transformative space within the confines of a canal barge. Their design was inspired by church organ bellows and VW camper van pop-up sleeping pods.

When navigating the waterways and passing beneath bridges, the boat will be compact and low-lying. When moored, the boat will be capable of expanding into an illuminated Chinese lantern-style beacon with ‘pop-out’ sculptural roof canopies. The largest of these canopies will provide a dramatic internal space for a range of uses, including conventional worship, and arts and cultural events.

Images and content courtesy of Denizen Works.

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