In Feb 2008 CRGP won a design competition for the re-ordering of St Mary’s Church in Thornbury, near Bristol.

The beautiful Grade 1 listed church dates back to the 12th Century and is a building of exceptional importance historically and architecturally.

Our proposals focus on adapting the church in order to best meet the demands of worship in the 21st Century, whilst retaining the character of a medieval parish church.

A fundamental of the design is the decision to create separate Fellowship and Worship areas. The Fellowship area encourages the congregation and wider community to gather together in relaxing and comfortable settings. This returns the Worship area to a reverent space, but which may be used for a wide variety of worship styles and services.

The design also proposes the introduction of a mezzanine which will provide much needed flexible space. The contemporary design of the mezzanine continues the theme of simplicity and elegance, enhancing the beauty of the existing building.

The design of St Mary’s has required considerable sensitivity and a full understanding of the history and architecture of the building as well as for the needs of the parish for the future.

It is a wonderful example of how CRGP have used cutting edge technologies and computer programs to create 3d animations and renders which successfully bring the vision of the church to life.

The proposals are currently being reviewed by the Diocese Advisory Committee and we hope that soon the aspirations of the parish and congregation will be realised.