Celebrating Excellence in Church Architecture: Insights from the 2024–2025 Church Architecture Awards
On 16 January, the annual Church Architecture Awards highlighted the creativity and dedication of those working to shape and conserve church buildings across the UK. Our founder and director, Nigel Walter, had the honour of representing the National Churches Trust at this prestigious event.
The Awards, hosted in partnership with the Ecclesiastical Architects and Surveyors Association, celebrate the best in church design, from innovative new buildings to meticulous conservation projects. These awards underscore the importance of thoughtful church architecture in creating spaces that serve their communities and preserve heritage for future generations.
The Lighthouse Church: A Winning Example of Modern Church Design
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Presidents’ Award to shedkm architects for their work on The Lighthouse Church in Heswall, Merseyside. This new church building replaced an ageing structure and has become a beacon for the local community—both literally and figuratively.
Nigel Walter shared his insights on the design, describing it as:
“Simple yet exceptionally clear. By bringing the building closer to the street and adding generous glazing, it creates a Wow in the streetscape while offering a warm, welcoming presence that’s far removed from the blank brick wall it replaced. It’s an excellent new building that reflects the life of an outward-looking congregation.”
The design focuses on functionality and hospitality. The pitched roof gathers three distinct spaces—Welcome, Well-Being, and Worship—under a single form, with Worship at the heart. Supporting accommodation is housed in lower flat-roofed additions, creating a cohesive yet dynamic layout. The emphasis on sustainability, with features such as air-source heat pumps and photovoltaic cells, ensures that the building is future-proofed for the community it serves.
Recognising Excellence in Church Conservation
The King of Prussia Gold Medal was awarded to Benjamin + Beauchamp architects for their conservation work at St Peter & St Paul Church in Blandford Forum, Dorset. This Grade I listed Georgian masterpiece underwent extensive repairs, including re-roofing, masonry conservation, and gilding of its apse. The project demonstrates how skilled craftsmanship and thoughtful design can preserve historic church buildings for generations to come.
Why Church Architecture Matters
Churches are more than places of worship; they are vital community hubs and custodians of our shared heritage. At Archangel Architects, we are passionate about church design that balances innovation with sensitivity to tradition. Whether it’s designing a new church building or conserving an existing one, we believe that thoughtful church architecture plays a key role in supporting communities and fostering connection.
Looking Ahead
The 2024–2025 Church Architecture Awards were a reminder of the incredible work being done by church architects to shape the future of these essential spaces. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees who continue to push the boundaries of what church design can achieve.
If you are considering a project involving church buildings, whether a new build or a sensitive restoration, Archangel Architects would love to help. Let’s create spaces that inspire, connect, and endure.
