Phased vision to future-proof heritage church

Studio BAD completed a comprehensive feasibility study for the existing buildings at St Thomas’s Church in Sheffield, South Yorkshire. The study reviewed the condition, layout, and long-term potential of the church’s built assets, with the aim of ensuring the property continues to support both the congregation and the wider community in a sustainable and meaningful way.

The current configuration of the main church building does not fully meet the needs of the congregation, and the wider group of buildings offers limited flexibility for community use. At the same time, rising maintenance costs associated with the upkeep of heritage buildings present an increasing financial challenge. In response, the study explored opportunities to reduce ongoing costs, improve functionality, and future-proof the site.

A phased approach was proposed to allow development to be delivered in manageable stages, aligning with funding availability and minimising disruption. Early phases focus on relatively modest interventions with the potential to generate income, helping to fund more significant works in later stages.

Phase One focuses on the smaller heritage buildings on the site. These buildings could be sensitively repurposed into high-quality residential flats, either to provide rental income for the church or to offer accommodation connected to church activities.

Phase Two addresses the larger heritage building that occupies a prominent, public-facing position. This building has strong potential to become a community hub, supporting local groups and events. Internal reconfiguration could accommodate flexible uses such as an events space, café, bookshop, or other community-focused facilities.

Phase Three concentrates on the main church building itself. By opening up the worship hall and ancillary spaces, the building could better support flexible worship, gatherings, and faith-based activities. With many community functions relocated to the refurbished heritage buildings, the church interior could become a more open, welcoming, and adaptable space. The removal of the existing modern lobby would also allow for the creation of an external civic space, suitable for markets, fêtes, and community events.

Phase Four proposes the replacement of the existing southern wing, which currently obscures views into the church from the street. A new, energy-efficient building would open up the site visually and physically to the surrounding neighbourhood, strengthening the church’s presence within the community. Designed as a contemporary interpretation of a traditional town hall, the new building would connect the civic outdoor space with the historic church fabric, reinforcing the site’s role as a shared community landmark.