September 23 2024

An A-listed early Modernist masterpiece by Gillespie, Kidd & Coia has been turned inside out by the addition of a landscaped piazza to enhance its relationship with Rutherglen Town Hall.

St Columbkille's Church, originally dating from 1940 and previously renovated in 2017, has seen its setting enhanced by Loader Monteith Architects and landscape architect Mark Donaldson, who have together created an outdoor congregation space framed with planted beds and seating.

Working to enhance the setting of the church and improve outreach and accessibility the works do away with grey concrete in favour of a planted piazza with red brick paving more in keeping with the Italian Romanesque Basilica-style church.

Iain King, specialist conservation architect and director at Loader Monteith, said: "This project has enhanced the church’s civic presence within Rutherglen, creating a welcoming entrance that is accessible for all, promoting outreach by opening up the church and breaking down barriers.

"By integrating a shallow gradient ramp into the stepped terraces, we ensure inclusivity without compromising the structure’s integrity. The soft landscaping further complements the entrance axis, with planting that provides seasonal interest that reflects the church calendar year."

A new access ramp provides barrier-free entry around curved York stone steps, inspired by the semi-circular sanctuary within. Flanked by an enlarged terrace the new entrance doubles as a public space for parissioners to gather informally.

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