The Church of St. John is a Grade II* listed landmark building in Rochdale, notable for its domed form, its use of reinforced concrete construction, and its nationally important sanctuary mosaic. Construction was started in 1925 under the Manchester architect Ernest Bower Norris to the earlier design of architect Oswald Hill. The apse and sanctuary is completely covered in a spectacular mosaic artwork by Eric Newton of Ludwig Oppenheimer Ltd, Blackburn. The mosaic, on the theme of Eternal Life, was completed in 1933.
The design of the church is architecturally significant because of its unusual symmetrical form (essentially a Maltese Cross on plan) and the sweeping domed main roof supported on a glazed clerestory with thirty-six arched windows. The ambitious reinforced concrete construction used the material to good effect by forming a simple and curvaceous interior. The nave is spanned by the self-supporting dome and is free of any columns or expressed structure.
Regrettably the building has had a long history of problems, principally relating to water ingress. Initially the concrete dome and the numerous subsidiary flats roofs were left as bare concrete, in the mistaken belief that the materials possessed sufficient waterproof properties. Subsequently the roofs were covered, first with mastic asphalt and later with bitumen felt in an attempt to prevent the water ingress.
More recently the problem of concrete decay due to carbonation has become a pressing issue. The clerestory structure is badly affected, and for a time the church had to be closed when spalling concrete started to fall into the nave.
The leaded lights of the clerestory are showing age-related deterioration, with several cracked quarries and rusting tie bars. The mosaic has also suffered as a result of the structural issues and water ingress affecting the sanctuary and apse. Areas of the mosaic have become detached from the background structure, and there are visible surface cracks and efflorescence.
The current design team undertook a detailed high-access examination of the dome and clerestory in 2020, as well as conducting a more holistic condition survey of the entire building. A specialist condition report on the mosaic was also commissioned.
Following the successful Round 1 NLHF grant application Crosby Granger Architects were appointed to lead the Development Phase of the project in September 2020, and assembled a design team of specialist advisers.
As part of this recording phase Historic England also carried out a high-resolution photographic survey of the 1932 Eric Newton mosaic, which has been modelled in 3D and can be viewed online. From the site survey work a full Schedule of Repairs was developed which, if carried out, would restore the full building to good structural, functional and cosmetic condition.
Appointed to work on the renowned St Oswald's Church in Grasmere, set within the idyllic village in the Lake District, Crosby Granger Architects is undertaking sensitive conservation efforts. Our focus includes preserving the church's historic features and ensuring its structural integrity, allowing this iconic place of worship to continue serving the community and visitors alike.
We are restoring St Chadโs Church in Gateshead, a Grade I listed landmark known as the 'Cathedral for the Workers.' Our conservation work safeguards its high-Gothic architecture and Arts & Crafts interiors, ensuring the longevity of this community icon. This project reinforces our dedication to preserving places of historic and cultural significance.
St Helenโs Church, a Grade I listed medieval structure, is undergoing vital conservation to address masonry deterioration caused by unsuitable past repairs. Our work focuses on carefully repointing with traditional lime mortar, ensuring the buildingโs long-term stability. By preserving its historic fabric, we safeguard its architectural and cultural significance, allowing future generations to appreciate its heritage.
We`re looking for an experienced Project Architect to join our conservation-led practice in Kendal.
This is an opportunity to take the lead on a diverse portfolio of projects across the UK, from listed buildings, churches and castles to rural estates and carefully considered new architecture in sensitive settings.
We`re looking for an ARB-registered architect with at least five years` post-Part 3 experience who is confident running projects independently and enjoys working closely with clients, consultants and contractors.
In return, you`ll join an established specialist practice with genuine responsibility, opportunities for professional development, and a clear route towards senior leadership.
Take a look at the full job description on our website.
๐ Kendal
๐ Full-time | Permanent
๐ผ Salary dependent on experience
To apply, please send your covering letter, CV and a concise portfolio showcasing three relevant projects to cg@crosbygrangerarchitects.co.uk.
Aug 5
Chloe Granger recently visited St John`s Church in Blackburn along with colleagues Andrew Bodenham, Amy Redman, Gabriela Popa and Luke Gardner to carry out a detailed stone survey ๐
During the survey, we identified areas of stonework that require defrassing or redressing to ensure any loose material is safely removed, as well as some replacements. The do-less approach will help to protect the public, as well as preserve as much of the historic fabric of the church as possible.
Whilst this inspection is part of a larger project, regular inspections like these are an important part of maintaining our built heritage for future generations.
#Construction #Architecture #Blackburn
Aug 4
A whole estate plan is more than a set of drawings - it`s a roadmap for the future.
It provides clarity, direction and confidence, ensuring every decision supports your long-term vision.
At Crosby Granger Architects, we do more than design. We coordinate, communicate and bring your vision to life, creating a seamless plan that works for today and generations to come.
If you`re an estate looking to plan ahead with purpose, we`d love to help.
Get in touch to start the conversation.
Jul 30
