THE CONCERT CHAPEL

TRANSFORMATION OF A HISTORIC AND LISTED CHAPEL

At Skt. Jørgensbjerg Cemetery in Roskilde, the historic chapel has been transformed into a vibrant music venue and local meeting place, easily accessible and visible from the main road.

Designed for classical and other forms of acoustic music, the chapel now hosts concerts, experimental music projects, recording sessions, workshops, and more.

This classical red brick building, with its distinctive crow-stepped gables, was originally designed by Danish architect Hans Schmidt in 1930. Over the years, only minor alterations have been made to this listed building.

MODERN ENHANCEMENTS TO ACOUSTICS AND FUNCTIONALITY

By integrating adjustable lighting and acoustic solutions, a bright space with a highly distinctive atmosphere has been created, enhancing the space without compromising its original character.

The most significant changes include a new floor with integrated benches and an acoustic ceiling. The floor and bench elements serve as both functional furniture and instruments, enriching the sound by adding resonance and acoustic volume through their soft surfaces and hollow structures. To accommodate a variety of musical activities, the new furniture provides flexible seating arrangements for the audience.

The chapel’s smaller rooms have been converted into backstage facilities, including a wardrobe, kitchenette, and restroom for artists, as well as storage for instruments.

A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) has been carried out in close collaboration with Realdania.

ACCESSIBILITY RENOVATION

Level-free access to the Concert Chapel has been discreetly integrated by removing a step and raising the forecourt, thereby levelling the terrain. Access to the annex has been established in the same way, and the building’s layout has been modified to include an accessible toilet.