Teignmouth, Devon, UK.
Re-ordering and extensions of the Church of our Lady & St Patrick. Earlier interventions had left this church in a sad state: original decorative wall panels crudely over-painted; font moved into an unusable position; introduction of uncomfortable, inflexible pews; ugly and ineffectual lighting and heating, inadequate kitchen, wcs etc. Location on a steep hill and busy road made access difficult, hazardous and unwelcoming.
The re-ordering involved extensive consultation with the Parish Priest, Parish Pastoral Committee and the congregation, as well as (being a Grade II listed building) the Historic Churches Committee, English Heritage and the local District Council. While preserving and enhancing original historic features, the re-ordering has improved access, provided more usable and flexible accommodation and facilities, and has transformed the previously dark and forbidding premises into a light, warm, welcoming church.
