A beautiful facility, enabling community engagement via a meaningful work of architecture
Acanthus Clews Architects for St John the Baptist Church, Burford
Contract value: £3.1m
GIA: 940m²
An impressively well-considered major extension within the curtilage of the grade I listed church of St John the Baptist to create much needed community facilities. The extension is to Warwick Hall, which is grade II, and the adjoining almshouses are grade II*.
The interventions went through extensive development, informed by the history of the buildings and place – not least that damage to the ancient church helped fund William Morris’ formation of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings. This approach not only minimised harm, but led to clever additions that will enrich users’ experience.
The design was unlocked by moving the entry into the churchyard, through the old stone wall, making it accessible for all. New detailing works with sensitive restoration, exposing earlier uses of the restored Warwick Hall. Intelligent client commissioning has resulted in a beautiful facility, enabling community engagement via a meaningful work of architecture.
Regional Conservation Award