FAITH IN ARCHITECTURE
Many of Canterbury’s fine historic churches, and in particular those of stone and brick, were badly hit by the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011.
While timber churches such as St Michael’s in Oxford Terrace were flexible enough to remain standing, stone churches such as St Mary’s in Merivale were damaged beyond repair. And of course, some, such as the Durham Street Methodist Church, collapsed completely.
Since the quakes, we have seen the construction of many new churches around the city. While today’s architecture sees some still designed as pure worship spaces, ranging from simply minimalist to grand and inspirational, most new churches are also designed as a hub to support their local community.
This is certainly true of two recently completed churches in Christchurch by Dalman Architects. The National Award-winning Chapel Street Centre, Methodist Church on Harewood Road encompasses a worship space, sports hall, and lounge areas. It is often booked out for various community uses such as music, sports, meetings, yoga, and a multitude of other classes.
So too for the Salvation Army’s Christchurch City Corps building on Colombo Street. The interior of the worship hall is designed to be warm and friendly, unlike the tent in a graveyard that the organisation’s founder first preached from in the late 19th Century. It features great acoustics and is home to the famous Sallies brass band. The NZ Army Band has also recorded a CD here. This building has a full-size basketball court/ sports hall, welcoming “drop-in” spaces, a sheltered sunny courtyard, and offices for its local and regional organisation.
Two other churches in the design phase include the Hope Presbyterian Church in Rolleston and a True Jesus Church in Addington, both featuring spaces beyond their worship hall.
No matter the denomination, it is important for modern architects to listen carefully to the church’s specific needs and provide a building that not only meets these but also allows connection to the surrounding community.