Broerekerk Bolsward
The Broerekerk in Bolsward was destroyed with its interior by fire in 1980. Repairs were delayed for a long time; the church had to make do without a roof for more than 25 years. Under the influence of weather and wind, the stone remains crumbled more and more and even unsafe situations arose. Over time, it was called ruin church.
The constant repair work, to prevent worse, came at the expense of stucco remains, bricks and joints. As a result, the monumental value of the original material was increasingly weakened. Therefore, a sustainable preservation of the brick remains was achieved. With a new glass shell, rain was prevented from still being able to reach the interior. While respecting the unique ruinous character that had developed over the years, the process of deterioration was stopped with a new canopy.
The glass follows the shape of the original rolled ceiling. The church space is thus subtly returned. The roof is suspended from steel trusses in the shape of the burned roof. The new height brings the church building back into the cityscape. The charred doors have been preserved and are a reminder of the fire.
When the mess was cleaned up, the church became a walled square for the city. The Broerek Church is still in use for all kinds of events and cultural activities, but now covered.
More J.O.N.G.architecten > 15.10.2020
Photography: Thijs Wolzak and Arthur Blonk