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.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).
Ebenezer Howard: inventor of the garden city. Book review.
The Grenfell Tower fire, eight years on
A time to pause and reflect as Dubai tower block fire reported just before anniversary.
Airtightness Topic Guide BSRIA TG 27/2025
Explaining the basics of airtightness, what it is, why it's important, when it's required and how it's carried out.
Construction contract awards hit lowest point of 2025
Plummeting for second consecutive month, intensifying concerns for housing and infrastructure goals.
Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025
Examining the state of mental health in construction, shedding light on levels of stress, anxiety and depression.