Date
2006-2022
Client
South Gloucestershire Council & Whitfield Tabernacle Trust
Location
Kingswood, South Gloucestershire
Collaborators
PGP, Mann Williams, Method Consulting
Fit-out and conversion of the Grade I Listed building to arts and community uses
In 1741, the Grade I Listed Whitfield Tabernacle was erected by George Whitefield, one of the founders of Methodism and the evangelical movement. The Tabernacle is “the oldest existing memorial to his share in the great 18th Century revival”, and the only Grade I Listed building in Kingswood.
Despite its historic significance, the building became severely dilapidated and was a ruin for a number of years. FMA was first involved with the site in 2006 when we conducted a site survey and feasibility studies. In 2012, English Heritage described the Tabernacle as the most important building in the worst condition of any building in the Southwest. The site is extremely problematic, incorporating three semi–ruinous listed buildings and a graveyard.
In 2012, FMA organised a campaign of urgent works to prevent further deterioration of these important buildings. We have since completed Phase 1 of the project to restore the building envelope including full replacement of the windows and a new roof. Phase 1 works started on site in early 2021 and successfully completed August 2022. Phase 2 of the project has since started on site, which will convert the building into a community arts space. Follow this link to read about the second phase of the project.
