Situated in the UNESCO-listed town of Christiansfeld in southern Denmark, the Church of the Moravian Brethren is more than a mere place of worship—it is a living embodiment of tradition, simplicity, and craftsmanship. The Douglas Natural flooring is central to this sacred space, quietly anchoring the church’s serene and understated atmosphere.
Restoration – Christiansfeld, Denmark
Photographer: Hampus Berndtsen
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Douglas Natural
Historical Planks
Christiansfeld Church was built in 1776–77, with lateral wings added in the 1790s. Its elegant design features a yellow brick façade, tall, mullioned windows, and a copper-clad bell tower.
The church and town were founded after King Christian VII’s 1768 visit to the Moravian community in Zeist, Netherlands. Inspired by the experience, the king supported the creation of Christiansfeld, which was designed with orderly streets and a central church square.
A Living Floor in a Sacred Space
Supplied during the church’s restoration in 1975, conical Douglas Natural floor planks span the entire congregation hall, reflecting both the visual clarity and the spiritual ideals of the Moravian community. Rather than being cleaned through conventional methods, the wooden floor is maintained by an age-old technique: scattering finely sifted white sand across the surface from the Danish west coast. This gentle method not only protects the floor planks but also absorbs dust and dirt while preserving the integrity and texture of the wood.
Over time, the sand gradually wears away the surface, allowing the floor to be naturally sanded and renewed—a process that respects the wood’s longevity and avoids harsh treatment. The fine grains of sand soften footsteps and acoustics, enhancing the church’s sense of peace and quiet reflection. It’s a subtle but powerful ritual that echoes the Moravian values of care, continuity, and connection to the earth.
More than 45 years later, the Douglas floor remains as solid and beautiful as ever—a testament to the enduring quality of the material and the mindful stewardship of the space it serves.