Consecrated in 1959, the Nicodemus Church, designed by Henry Schlote, stands on Fuhlsbüttler Straße in Ohlsdorf. Its exterior appears rather traditional, but the interior impresses with progressive design: a striking parabolic form and high-quality iconographic fixtures. Like many other churches of the Evangelical Northern Church, it was decommissioned and desacralized in 2022. WRS Architects and Urban Planners, in collaboration with the Heritage Conservation Office and the Maike Bruhns Art Collection Foundation as client, converted the sacred building into "Parabel – Center for Art in Hamburg."

Repurposing a desacralized church—especially one under heritage protection—poses a fundamental challenge, as its distinctive urban character and period architectural details must be preserved. The sensitive renovation by Axel Winckler safeguards these essential elements. The room-defining exposed concrete and brick pillars as well as the wooden ceiling were carefully restored. The sloped gallery for organ and choir was removed and replaced with a new exposed concrete ceiling, creating additional exhibition space. In the entrance area, a reception desk was integrated—separated from the former church space by a partition wall with glass openings and a large sliding glass door. Exhibiting art requires a neutral space with straight walls. Therefore, the interior received a new shell of exhibition surfaces positioned in front of the sacred walls. A textile membrane quiets the space and ensures light protection. The flooring of turquoise tiles and wooden boards was replaced, following intensive consultation with the Heritage Conservation Office, with neutral screed and underfloor heating. All new elements and installations are rendered in dark gray to clearly distinguish them from the existing structure. A light installation in parabolic form on the tower makes the transformation into an art center visible and invites visitors to experience the exceptional collection of Hamburg art from the 20th and 21st centuries.

www.wirsind.net
www.parabel.hamburg

Photos:
juergen-schmidt-fotografie.de
www.juergen-schmidt-fotografie.de
Hayo Heye
www.hayoheye.com

(Published in CUBE Hamburg 01|26)