Renewal Rooted In Tradition

Billund Church: Renewal Rooted in Tradition

In the heart of Billund, a church has long stood as both a spiritual and cultural gathering place. Originally built in 1973 as part of the visionary Billund Centre, the church was designed to be more than a place of worship. It was to serve as a living hub for community life, open and accessible to all.

Nearly fifty years later, the building has been sensitively renewed by Anna Mette Exner Arkitektur in collaboration with Kuno and Ejner B. Mielby, ensuring that the spirit of the original design continues while adapting to today’s needs. Completed in 2023, the renovation reaffirms the church as a centre for faith, culture and fellowship in Billund.

A Story of Architecture and Community

The original church, financed by Ole Kirks Fond and the Kirk Christiansen family, was notable for its distinctive design: mocha-coloured brick in herringbone pattern, large glass façades, and staggered volumes that gave the building a vibrant openness. Inside, 180 seats surround a striking steel cross over the altar, created by renowned goldsmiths Helga and Bent Exner, who also crafted the church’s silverware and baptismal font.

The renovation respects these qualities while strengthening the church’s role as a daily meeting place. With additional rooms for choirs, community events and offices, the church remains a vital part of Grene Parish and continues to welcome visitors every day between 10 and 18.

Flooring as Foundation

For this renewal, we at Hørning were honoured to supply long-strip beech flooring, chosen for its clarity and warmth. Beech, with its fine grain and natural brightness, supports the architects’ vision of creating an atmosphere that is both welcoming and serene.

Installing such flooring in a space of this importance demands both craftsmanship and precision. The choice of wood not only enhances the acoustic qualities of the church but also ties into its long tradition of material honesty and high-quality design.

A Place for Life’s Moments

Billund Church is more than architecture. It is a place where life’s most profound moments are marked - from baptisms and weddings to concerts, choir practices and community gatherings. Its renewal reflects the town’s continued investment in spaces that foster togetherness, meaning and beauty.

For us, being part of this project was not just about supplying a floor. It was about contributing to a space that carries both history and future, a building where wood, light and community meet.

Photos by: Billund Church