Worship

CHURCHES THAT STILL RETAIN WORSHIP, WHILST ALSO ADDING NEW MULTI-FUCTIONAL USES

St Marien Church, Müncheberg

Type: Worship

Use: Workship + Library + Community Spaces

Architects: Klaus Block

Photo Credit: Klaus Block Website

The medieval St Marien Church in Müncheberg was reborn under architect Klaus Block to become both a place of worship and a multifunctional community centre. A new four-storey structure was carefully inserted into the shell of the historic nave, housing the municipal library, offices and meeting spaces while the altar and core liturgical space remain in use. This adaptive reuse preserves the sacred function of the church while giving it renewed civic purpose as a cultural hub

The Ascension Centre, Bitterne Park

Use: Worship + Café + Community

The Ascension Centre in Bitterne Park, Southampton, was adapted to include new meeting rooms, a café, and a commercial kitchen while continuing to function primarily as a church. These additions have allowed the building to serve both worship and community purposes, making it a multifunctional facility that supports a wider range of local activities.

St Mary Aldermary, City of London

Use: Worship + Café + Community

St Mary Aldermary in the City of London is a working parish church that has embraced a multifunctional future. While worship remains central, the introduction of the Host Café within the nave has brought new life and financial resilience, drawing in visitors and workers during the week. This adaptive approach preserves the church’s sacred role while allowing it to serve as a welcoming community hub in the heart of the City.

St Paul's Church, Bordesley Green

Use: Worship + Community + Room Hire

In 1999 St Paul’s Church in Bordesley Green was reordered to create a multi-purpose building combining a worship space with a conference centre and office facilities. Earlier adaptations also saw the adjoining mission church converted into a nursery, allowing the site to support both religious services and wider community uses.

The Sherriff Centre, West Hampstead

Type: Worship + Community

Use: Soft Play Area + Cafe + Community Spaces + Worship

Photo Credit: Sherriff Centre

The Grade II listed St James’ Church in West Hampstead has been converted into The Sherriff Centre, a thriving community hub that combines a working post office, café, children’s soft play area, and meeting spaces while retaining its function as a place of worship. The adaptation has revitalised the church, providing essential local services and social spaces within its historic interior, ensuring the building remains active, self-sustaining, and central to community life.