De Antenne
Dedemsvaart, NL
When the Reformed Church in Dedemsvaart felt compelled to build a new church in 1995, the architect GERRITSMA from Assen was asked to incorporate two facets. On the one hand, the building had to become the home - as the centre of church life - for the congregation. On the other hand, it had to be clearly recognisable as a church that is aware of its place in society - albeit not dominant, but modest. After extensive discussions, it was decided to create a space with a light character, but also with the privacy of round walls that envelop the congregation. Small openings provide a window on the world. The indirect daylight and the circular lines in the walls strengthen the feeling of intimacy and solidarity. At one point, the enveloping wall breaks open and only the structural frame remains, the facade gives way to make room for the light that falls from above.