The heritage-protected parish church of St. Petri in the heart of Dortmund is a place for everyone. This sacred space offers visitors both spiritual refuge and a diverse program of events. The church's choir showcases a remarkable 16th-century Antwerp altarpiece. In spring 2022, extensive renovation work began on the building. The walls and vaults had accumulated significant soiling, while moisture damage affected the base structure. The entire interior was scaffolded up to the vault level to enable comprehensive treatment. Beyond structural restoration, the project required developing a new exhibition and lighting concept to serve the church's multifaceted purpose. The Dortmund-based firm Spital-Frenking + Schwarz Architekten took on this complex assignment. Since July 2023, the church has radiated in its renewed splendor. The architectural office received recognition at the 2023 BDA Architecture Prize for Dortmund, Hamm, Unna for this exemplary restoration.

A conservator determined the material composition and color of the existing plaster, establishing the basis for applying lime-based plaster and paint finishes. The vaults and their stone ribs had been destroyed during World War II. To accentuate the ribs, the team selected a color tone that echoes the existing natural stone. The original parquet flooring was refinished and sealed. During renovation, asbestos was discovered in the side vaults, necessitating a six-month work suspension from mid- to late 2022 to allow for its safe removal. In collaboration with lighting design firm lightmosphere, the architects developed a comprehensive lighting concept. Light tubes with integrated fixtures were installed at the capitals of columns and wall corners, complemented by floor-level lighting at corresponding positions. This integrated system enables the creation of varied atmospheric effects. A newly constructed technical room provides centralized lighting control. Modern track lighting illuminates both the permanent exhibition on the church's history and altar, as well as the rotating exhibition spaces.

Before restoration work began, the conservator carefully cleaned the altarpiece and remaining figurative works. Upon completion, she removed decades of accumulated dust and grime from both altar and sculptures. The church's wooden figures were organized conceptually as a unified collection. One figure group was mounted on the south wall near the entrance on metal brackets, following historical precedent. This ensemble comprises sculptures that had been destroyed during World War II when the original pulpit was damaged. To address the building's varied functional requirements, four custom furnishings were designed for the entrance area. These pieces simultaneously serve display, information, surveillance, and storage functions while remaining mobile and featuring electrical connections. Donation and votive candle boxes, designed to match the overall interior aesthetic, complete the ensemble. The original steel candle stands were refurbished, brass-plated, fitted with new glass panels, and integrated into the new cabinetry.

www.spitalfrenking-schwarz.de

Photos:
Philip Kistner
www.philipkistner.com

(From CUBE Ruhrgebiet 02|24)