Christ's Church in Bochum, Germany

Abstract

This design was the result of a competition, and satisfies in an excellent manner the initial stipulations: equal emphasis on the altar and pulpit with reference to the congregation, and suitable location of the latter. The external appearance is that of a crown, thus inviting the onlooker to reflect on its symbolism. The triangular designs inside the church and on the roof express the idea of the Trinity. The most characteristic feature of the construction is the folded roof structure. The thrusts arising from this design are taken by the walls, which contain openings with coloured glazing, which tend to face the alter. The folded roof and the relative positioning of the walls give the church excellent acoustical properties. A low building houses the sacristy, the meeting hall and annexe. The old tower, 70 ms high, is in sharp contrast to the many sided shape of the church, whilst the gothic style of the tower harmonises with the modern version of gothic represented by the new church building.