Copenhagen is getting its first newly constructed church in more than three decades, with the groundbreaking ceremony held this week in Ørestad, one of the city’s fastest-growing districts. The project marks a rare development in Denmark’s religious architecture and reflects a broader ambition to combine spiritual functions with community and cultural life.
A new parish and a new identity for Ørestad
The new Ørestad parish was officially established in December 2024, covering Ørestad City and Ørestad South, home to nearly 26,000 residents. The church project, long foreseen in the district’s planning documents, is being developed by the parish council and funded through the sale of land by By & Havn, Copenhagen’s urban development agency.
The building is designed by the renowned firm Henning Larsen Architects, and construction is set to continue until late 2026. The two-storey structure will cover 1,618 square metres, with seating for 276 people in the main sanctuary and an additional 130 in a dedicated cultural room.
Ørestad new church: spirituality meets culture and community
Beyond traditional religious services, the church will host a chapel, church offices, and a secluded courtyard. Significantly, it will also serve as a flexible venue for community dinners, small concerts, lectures, yoga classes, and other informal events. This hybrid use underscores an effort to adapt to contemporary notions of spirituality and social belonging.
“We want a church that is an active part of Ørestad, with many cultural, social and artistic activities,” said Andreas Klein Eriksen, chair of the parish council. “We hope it will be an enrichment for all of Copenhagen, spiritually, culturally, and architecturally.”
Ørestad new church: timber construction with a symbolic message
The entire church will be built using wood — including floors, walls, columns and beams — an unusual choice for a large-scale Danish building. This sustainable approach aims to create a warm, inviting environment while also offering a distinct architectural identity. The design draws inspiration from forest clearings and filtered daylight, reflecting a growing preference for natural materials in sacred spaces.
“Many people today seek spiritual moments in nature,” noted Nina la Cour Sell, partner at Henning Larsen Architects. “We wanted to rediscover the church space as something that adapts to our time. The use of wood symbolises social and cultural values: this is a place to share and grow together.”
No tower or bells — for now
When completed, the church will not include a tower or bells, though these may be added in a future development phase. Still, the building already promises to become a central fixture in Ørestad’s urban and cultural landscape.
