Name: Alix von Knebel
Track: Master Architecture
Studio: Heritage & Architecture
Year: MSc2 / 2024
Type: Readaptation of a church
Tutor: Alexander de Ridder
Description:
The project „IN SPIRITU“ addresses the challenge of declining use of church spaces due to decreasing attendance at worship services. Focusing on the modern „Bethelkerk“ in North Amsterdam, the project explores the spatial and functional potentials of repurpo-sing church buildings or integra-ting additional functions.The project is based on the fact that while traditional religious faith is declining, the concept of spirituality and mindfulness are gaining popularity. By reinterpreting the concept of spirituality and its connection to inspiration, the project envisions a spatial program that includes new functions designed to immerse individuals in a state of mind that fosters creativity and inspiration.The newly added functions are housed in a new volume that interacts with the existing asymmetric structure of the building. The design leverages the spatial potential of the existing structure to introduce its own levels of phenomenal transparency, while simultaneously connecting the new volume with the existing building through a new circulation system. Furthermore the project revives the original spiritual pathway to a newly created multireligious space.