Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people of the Kulin Nation
Victoria
Designed in 1964 by Chancellor and Patrick, St Paul’s Church is a place of aesthetic and historical significance within the City of Whitehorse. The redevelopment responds to the adaptive reuse of a mid-twentieth century ecclesiastical building, balancing conservation of the original fabric with the evolving needs of a growing Lutheran congregation.
The project prioritises retention, repair and legibility of the original ‘organic’ architectural language. Rough-textured masonry and warm interior finishes have been carefully conserved, while a modified spatial arrangement and new altar design strengthen the liturgical focus.Â
New additions are deliberately restrained in scale and materiality, maintaining the visual primacy of the church and its distinctive raked roofs. A contemporary angled form provides a clear yet respectful counterpoint, allowing filtered light and views into new gathering spaces. The project ensures the continued relevance of a significant heritage building through sensitive adaptation and clearly expressed old and new.
The architects did a magnificent job in extending the church space into large community spaces and office areas – all the time preserving the integrity of the original church design including its heritage-protected exterior. The architects incorporated many design principles for a welcoming church and church centre, including for those with disabilities or impairments, as well as being sensitive to the principles of dementia-friendly environments, while also designing for a multi-use environment, with several options for alternative worship spaces
Mark Greenwood, Project Architect
Jenni Webster, Project Director
Sandy Law, Design Director
Martina Tempestini, Design Architect
Andrew Kleidon, Documentation
Damian Belle, Documentation
Creo Consulting, Structural Engineer
Acor, Services Consultant
Philip Chun, Building Surveyor
Michael Taylor, Heritage Consultant
AEN Advisory, Acoustic Consultant
LID, ESD Consultant