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
Homes, landlords. tenants and the new housing standards
What will it all mean?
The Architectural Technology podcast: Where it's AT
Catch-up on the latest episodes.
Edmundson Apprentice of the Year award 2026
Entries now open for this Electrical Contractors' Association award.
Traditional blue-grey slate from one of the oldest and largest UK slate quarries down in Cornwall.
There are plenty of sources with the potential to be redeveloped.
Change of use legislation breaths new life into buildings
A run down on Class MA of the General Permitted Development Order.
Solar generation in the historic environment
Success requires understanding each site in detail.
Level 6 Design, Construction and Management BSc
CIOB launches first-ever degree programme to develop the next generation of construction leaders.
Open for business as of April, with its 2026 prospectus and new pipeline of housing schemes.
The operational value of workforce health
Keeping projects moving. Incorporating unplanned absence and the importance of health, in operations.
A carbon case for indigenous slate
UK slate can offer clear embodied carbon advantages.
Costs and insolvencies mount for SMEs, despite growth
Construction sector under insolvency and wage bill pressure in part linked to National Insurance, says report.
The place for vitrified clay pipes in modern infrastructure
Why vitrified clay pipes are reclaiming their role in built projects.
Research by construction PR consultancy LMC published.
Roles and responsibilities of domestic clients
ACA Safety in Construction guide for domestic clients.
Fire door compliance in UK commercial buildings
Architect and manufacturer gives their low down.