This repurposed church in Edinburgh now welcomes the local community for different types of gatherings. Named the Greyfriars Charteris Centre, the building acts as a community hub and contains various flexible workplace options, events spaces, "a non-denominational sanctuary," and other facilities designed to support the sociability, health, and entertainment of guests. The church was functional for about a century, starting in 1912. It was in 2016, it reopened as the Greyfriars Charteris Centre.
Many architects and designers have worked on repurposed churches, at least those that are seeing dwindling use, to turn them into something more functional for locals. This particular project was headed by Scottish architecture firm Konishi Gaffney. Although challenging at times, the practice was able to transform the space while preserving some of its unique aesthetic features..
Image Credit: Nanne Springer
What's Driving This Trend
- Repurposed Churches as Community Hubs
- The trend of converting underutilized churches into multi-functional community hubs offers an opportunity for architects and designers to create adaptable spaces that promote sociability, health and entertainment.
- Flexibility in Workspace Design
- The trend of incorporating flexible workspace options in repurposed churches addresses the need for adaptable workplace solutions.
- Non-denominational Sanctuaries
- The trend of repurposing churches to create non-denominational sanctuaries offers an opportunity for architects and designers to create inclusive spiritual spaces for all visitors.
Who This Affects Most
- Architecture and Design
- As the demand for repurposed church projects increases, architects and designers have an opportunity to innovate new designs and repurposing strategies.
- Community and Non-profit Organizations
- Repurposed churches offer an opportunity for community organizations to create multi-functional spaces that promote social, cultural, and spiritual engagement.
- Workspace and Event Space Rental
- Repurposed churches with flexible workspace and events spaces provide an alternative option for remote workers and event planners.
