Tiny Church

A Natural Space for Reflection and Community

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Tiny Church in Nordhavn, Copenhagen, marks the area’s shift from harbor to residential neighborhood. Inspired by the early Christian fish symbol of faith and community, the design offers a modern reinterpretation of this ancient motif.

 

The 50 m² space is adaptable, serving as a sanctuary, dining hall, or concert venue. Glass walls connect the interior to the surrounding landscape, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor flow. The outdoor setting features amphitheater seating, meandering grass paths, and native trees, offering a tranquil gathering space within the urban environment.

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The church is built using locally grown straw, a fully biodegradable and insulating agricultural byproduct. Its wooden frame ensures an efficient use of materials, minimizing the carbon footprint. Recycled container panels are repurposed into interior walls and entrance screens, integrating local materials while reducing the need for new resources.

 

Community participation is central to the church’s identity. Residents and congregants are invited to participate in traditional thatching, reviving a 2,000-year-old craft and fostering intergenerational connection. This hands-on process creates a shared sense of ownership and strengthens ties within the community.

 

Designed for mobility, the church can be disassembled and relocated, ensuring its enduring role as a welcoming and versatile gathering space.