Sacred space in the architecture of Dominikus Böhm (1880-1955). Geometric-functional analysis and structural morphology

At the beginning of the twentieth century in North-West Germany, the Dominikus Böhm’s project experience is characterized by the systematic research for a spatial morphology according to the changing liturgical needs of the Catholic Church. He significantly contributed to the definition of new style and functional standards - adopted by the Second Vatican Council - through formal and technical innovative solutions: investigating organic-structural systems, geometric-functional relations and materials technological aspects. He developed a common language, shared with other architects like Martin Weber and Rudolf Schwarz. Special harmony of proportions mattered through shapes that allow a uniform redistribution of the load (it requires no buttresses or other support elements). Generally, his buildings reached acoustically effective outcomes accommodating all the believers and the officiants without visual and acoustic obstacles. Considering he built about eighty churches following building German tradition, within this essay three are main buildings will be focused; five are the morphological categories will be analyzed: i) the layout (unidirectional and multidirectional systems, central and elliptical plans), ii) the internal elevation (according to different geometric configurations), iii) constructive materials (bricks, wooden solutions and concrete), iv) structural elements (bearing walls and pillars), and v) the element of the ‘façade’ (in its volumetric aspects).