From the early basilical churches of the Roman Empire to the still-unfinished Sagrada Família, there aren’t many facets of Christian architecture that haven’t been sufficiently perfected over the past two millennia. Perhaps in an effort to challenge that notion, a new project from UK-based firm Denizen Works seeks to posit not only a new, functional aesthetic for a place of worship but also one that eschews the traditional concept of real estate as well.
The aptly named Floating Church is just that: a place of worship and a community hub housed on a barge that can navigate its way through London’s canals. Designed to mimic the bellows of a church organ, a series of pneumatic arms power an expandable aluminum roof that can create additional space for parishioners during services. The structure’s buoyant foundation was designed in partnership with Turks Boat Builders.
Built as a literal vessel for the Diocese of London (a subsidiary of the Church of England) to spread its gospel, Floating Church will moor in various locations of North London in an effort to foster new congregations in areas without established church communities. In addition to sermons, the water-bound community space can play host to book groups, yoga classes, and all manner of events. "As architects, it's been fascinating to engage with a different strand of the construction industry," Denizen Works architect Andrew Ingram said in a statement. "We have designed a boat which we think will become a landmark on the London canal and provide its users with a unique and inspiring space."
The project is still in the process of securing funds, but construction is slated to begin in March 2018 in the hopes of Floating Church’s maiden voyage taking place before the end of the year.
