Minimalist concrete church in Spain named World Building of the Year

The Holy Redeemer Church of Las Chumberas in La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain serves as a significant landmark in its neglected outskirts neighbourhood. Photo: Roland Halbe

The Holy Redeemer Church and Community Centre of Las Chumberas in La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain has been named World Building of the Year at the 2025 World Architecture Festival (WAF).

A project by Fernando Menis Architect, the building serves as a significant landmark in its neglected, outskirts neighbourhood, acting as a catalyst for urban renewal within a fragmented built landscape.

Fernando Menis, founder of Fernando Menis Architect said: "Winning is a great gift, not only for me but also the church neighbourhood, who will now be recognised beyond Tenerife."

Inspired by the surrounding volcanic landscape, the architecture of The Holy Redeemer Church of Las Chumberas is defined by massive, rough forms that intentionally contrast with the existing built environment. Photo: Roland Halbe

Paul Finch, WAF programme director commented: "The judges particularly admired the intensity of the architecture and the way light has been used to shape the quality and character of the interiors, enhancing the tactile nature of the surfaces.

"The building manages to masterfully accommodate symbolic and everyday needs of the community... The project has become a fine addition to the architecture of Tenerife.”

The project features a church, a community centre and a public square, creating a vital gathering space for local residents.

The Fractal Chapel serves as a tranquil haven for patients, staff and visitors. Photo: Innocad Architecture

WAF2025 was held Nov 12-14 in Miami, Florida, the United States. Besides World Building of the Year, it also awards the titles of World Interior of the Year, Future Project of the Year and Landscape of the Year.

Central to the Fractal Chapel’s atmosphere are its fractal patterns, which are inspired by the geometry found throughout nature. Photo: Innocad Architecture

Bagging the coveted title of World Interior of the Year is The Fractal Chapel in Austria designed by Innocad Architecture.

 

Skilfully combining science, art and nature in its design, the chapel – hosted by the Protestant Church and located at a state hospital in Graz – serves as a tranquil haven for patients, staff and visitors.