An Abandoned Church Turned Into a Library. Stunning Renovation of a Dutch Temple

Sometimes it happens that some churches cease to serve a religious function and start to fall into disrepair. How to save historic buildings from destruction? In western Europe they have a way to do it.

Vught is a town located in the south of the Netherlands. The DePetrus church (dedicated to St. Peter) was inaugurated there in 1884. It served the local community until 2005. Then, it was decided to deconsecrate the church and give it to the public. In the historic building a library, a cafe and a museum were arranged.

Architects from a Dutch design studio have made some changes in the interior of the church. A white mezzanine floor was added to facilitate, among other things, movement. This additional floor measures about 500 m2 and winds elegantly between the pillars. It contains conference rooms and a space where you can isolate yourself from the crowd and concentrate on your studies.

The most essential thing in any library are the bookshelves. In the DePetrus church, they were placed in a central area. Additionally, huge chandeliers resembling circles floating in the air have been hung. Thanks to them you can admire the original polychromes. The introduced changes and additional furniture did not disturb the historic construction. They were designed so that they could be easily removed and, if necessary, the church could be restored to its original function.

What do you think of this astonishing change of a church building?