saint thomas more church napier
completed 2003
The client’s
brief was simple “We want a boutique community church to seat 220,
expandable to 350 if necessary, with feeling.” The clients did not
want a traditional timber panelled edifice, but a domestic, comfortable,
homely building. It was to be situated on a back section located
well off the road. Our aim was to create a church, identifiable
from the road and surrounds with a main entry visible from the road.
It was also important the sun be associated with after service socialising,
both early morning and mid day.
Special
feeling was to be captured in the heart of the church, the sanctuary.
This has been achieved with the play of volumes and angles, softened
with curves and diffused natural light. A distinctly feminine feel
is gained with curves, delicate detailing and soft colours. The
main altar is back-lit with a large, 2m radius, light shaft with
glazing facing directly North. Suspended within this dome space
is the crucifix. This appears to be floating and is haloed by a
cross-shaped window, set into the curved wall behind it. Light radiates
out from this focal point into the church body creating an ambient
feeling and a warm gentle glow.
The
light levels in the main body of the church were deliberately kept
low. The sanctuary area is curved around the front of the church
as open arms to welcome all comers. The steps in front of the altar
are curved inward to help draw people in and to give a sense of
‘all in’ worship. Acoustics were also an important consideration
in the final design. The church has to accommodate an organ, natural
voice, amplified voice, amplified music, singing and small music
groups this has been achieved with perfect balance. |