TRANSFORMATION OF HISTORIC ANS 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 battlements, 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 ACOUSTIC AND FUNCTIONAL DESIGN
By integrating adjustable lighting and acoustic solutions, a bright room with a very distinct ambience 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 volume through their soft surfaces and hollow structures. To accommodate various musical activities, the new furniture offers flexible seating arrangements for the audience.
The chapel’s smaller rooms have been repurposed as backstage areas, including a wardrobe, kitchenette, and restroom for artists, as well as a storage area for instruments.
A Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) has been conducted in close collaboration with Realdania.
ACCESSIBILITY
The level-free access to the Concert Chapel has been discreetly integrated by removing a step and raising the forecourt, thereby leveling the terrain. Access to the annex has been established in the same way, and the layout of the building has been modified to include a handicap accessible toilet.