As a versatile extension, ‘The Gathering Place’ enables Leigh Memorial Church in Parramatta to better provide at many scales within the city – as a social and spiritual gateway, a landmark and as a drop-in place where all are welcome. It moreover, embodies the values and vision of Parramatta Mission, while celebrating the unique heritage of the church.
Expand ContentOur concept, one plus one equals one, is rooted in the pursuit of harmony over dichotomy. We see The Gathering Place not as an addition, but as a direct extension of the Leigh Memorial Church – two buildings reading as one. As such, it is an outward expression of the Uniting Church today: permeable on all sides; reaching out to the community; and welcoming to all.
The forms themselves reference the structure of the Church, with the northern elevation comprising a single but large Gothic arched brick opening that echoes that of the Church. Brick walls and a sandstone plinth complement the existing church structure, while fine steel-framed windows and doors speak to the lancet-shaped stained glass windows. This creates a synergistic relationship between the two buildings and a distinction from the surrounding commercial glass towers.
Legible as a stand-alone building, and also as an extension to the Church, the iconic form comprises six tapered and concave vertical brick buttresses to the east and west. These buttresses are connected by a contemporary vaulted brick structure, further referencing Gothic church structures.
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