Krill Architecture Unveils Plans for Circular Solar-Powered Church in Valer, Norway

<a href="http://krill.nl/valer-church/">Krill Architecture</a> recently unveiled plans for a beautiful circular wooden church for <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V%C3%A5ler,_Hedmark">Valer</a>, Norway. The competition entry proposes to renovate the town's old church ruins with an open <a href="http://inhabitat.com/apple-unveils-exciting-new-pictures-of-its-foster-partners-designed-green-headquarters-in-cupertino/">ring-shaped building</a> that is powered by <a href="http://inhabitat.com/solar-power/">solar panels</a>. The interior of the ring holds a verdant patio, and the structure would be lifted on one side, giving people the opportunity to come in without crossing a threshold.

The church building is designed for two important, but seemingly incompatible demands.

One demand is the open character of the gathering space (Domus Ecclesiae), involving the church in the community

The other demand is the closed character of the spiritual, secluded space (Domus Dei), promising peace of mind.

It is for that reason that the church will be placed as an open ring in a newly designed park.

The ruins of the old church will be clad with granite and <a href="http://inhabitat.com/solar-power/">solar collectors</a>.

Several spaces are collected within the ring under a partly open roof. Toilets, storage, technical spaces, and offices for the pastor and eldermen are positioned outside, and can be accessed through the ring-shaped passageway.