Constructed in 1962 and later deconsecrated in 2008, the St. Sebastian church underwent an innovative transformation at the hands of the renowned architectural duo Bolles + Wilson. This historic structure, renowned for its distinct elliptical nave, has been thoughtfully repurposed as a modern kindergarten.
Maintaining respect for the original architectural integrity, the renovation project introduced child-friendly, interactive spaces designed to stimulate young minds. The second phase of construction added a layer of site-perimeter housing, providing both a protective shield and a sense of community around the kindergarten. This transformation is a testament to adaptive reuse in architecture, balancing preservation with contemporary needs.
St. Sebastian Kindergarten Renovation Technical Information
- Architect: Bolles + Wilson | Works of Bolles + Wilson
- Location: Germany
- Project Year: 2013
- Photographs: © Markus Hauschild, Photo existing © S. Ahlbrand-Dornseif + R.Wakonigg
The St. Sebastian church built in 1962 and deconsecrated in 2008 has been revitalized with the most lively and positive function, i.e. with children.
– Bolles + Wilson
St. Sebastian Kindergarten Renovation Photographs
A Church Becomes a Kindergarten
Not heritage listed, already condemned, the St. Sebastian church built in 1962 and deconsecrated in 2008, has been revitalized with the most lively and positive function, i.e. with children.
The elegant elliptical form of the nave physically anchors its surrounding neighborhood. Two levels of kindergarten group rooms are housed within, and the roofs of these become an all-weather play deck. Grass green impact-protection flooring and street lights give the play decks the ambiance of outdoor space.
A grid of 50 x 50 cm unglazed openings, the only originally glazed light source in the church, provide constant, natural ventilation. Cold in winter, comfortably temperate in summer, but always dry, this magical inside/outside space is flooded with light.
Adjacent to the kindergarten nave, a new street-facing extension houses the main entrance, kitchen, offices, technical rooms, and one multipurpose room. This is available for neighborhood events.
St. Sebastian Kindergarten Renovation Plans
St. Sebastian Kindergarten Renovation Gallery
About Bolles and Wilson
Bolles + Wilson is a renowned architectural firm founded by Julia Bolles-Wilson and Peter Wilson in 1980. The duo, originally from London, established their practice in Münster, Germany, after winning the competition for the design of the Münster City Library.
Bolles + Wilson are known for their conceptual approach to architecture, their attention to urbanistic contexts, and for creating distinctive, high-quality buildings. Their works often incorporate innovative design solutions while maintaining a deep respect for the sociocultural and historical contexts of the sites.
Notes
- Project Architects: Anne Elshof, Christoph Lammers, Christoph Macholz
- Construction supervision: Klaus Kuchenbuch
- Structure: Ahw Ingenieure GmbH, Münster
