St Patrick’s, Belfast

GWP Architecture is developing proposals for the sensitive renewal of St Patrick’s Church, a Grade B1 listed church that has formed an important part of the East Belfast community since its construction in 1893. Designed by S.P. Close in the Gothic Revival style, the church retains a strong architectural identity through its distinctive bell tower, Gothic detailing and historic stone and cast-iron boundary features. 

GWPA’s proposal seeks to carefully balance the building’s historic character with the changing needs of a contemporary church community. The scheme will transform the existing building into a flexible and welcoming place of worship, centred around a 600–800 person multipurpose space capable of accommodating services, performances and community events. The historic chancel will be adapted as a contemporary stage, introducing new facilities for music and audiovisual presentations while maintaining its importance within the church. 

Alongside the main worship space, GWPA’s proposals introduce a new café and entrance hub designed to encourage social interaction and community outreach, supported by dedicated children’s facilities, accessible WC provision and flexible office accommodation. Together, these interventions aim to create a more adaptable and inclusive church that can support both worship and a wider programme of community activity, while sensitively responding to the character and significance of the listed building.