"Developing a Church at the heart of a heritage zone into a community hub"
■ Client
↣ Alive
■ Type
↣ Culture
■ JMA+
■ Location
↣ Grantham, Lincolnshire
The Alive Church Grantham project envisions transforming a historic church building into a multifunctional hub, serving as an incubator space for creative and cultural enterprises. The aim is to create a dynamic environment that supports community-focused initiatives, fostering growth and collaboration among local businesses, cultural organisations, and social enterprises.
Located in the heart of Grantham, Alive Church occupies a unique heritage building originally constructed in 1870. While the building is not listed, it is of significant historical interest and is situated within the Grantham Conservation Area, known for its rich architectural character. The development plans for Alive Church are carefully designed to preserve the building's historic features while repurposing it to meet contemporary community needs.
The project will reimagine the church as a vibrant community hub, housing organisations that make a tangible impact at the neighbourhood level. The space will be a blueprint for future developments, providing a safe and collaborative environment where both individuals and businesses can thrive. It will host workshops, events, development programmes, and offer opportunities for skills development and business growth.
Key components of the design include the creation of versatile spaces such as podcast booths, creative studios, and a community living room. These areas will cater to a wide range of activities, from artistic endeavours to community gatherings. The project also envisions the addition of a coffee shop and possibly a bookshop, enhancing the church's role as a welcoming and inclusive space for the entire community.
The church's new role aligns with the broader vision for Grantham, which seeks to boost the local economy and strengthen community ties. By establishing partnerships with town strategic entities and socially vested businesses, Alive Church will contribute to Grantham's ongoing development, helping to address key challenges such as economic performance, social inclusion, and the need for creative spaces.
In maintaining the building's external appearance, the project ensures that the church remains a cherished landmark within the townscape. The plans respect the character of the Conservation Area, using high-quality materials and sustainable design practices to enhance both the building and its surroundings.
Image of existing hall
Image of existing cafe
Address
3rd Floor, 86-90 Paul Street
London EC2A 4N
© 2022 Julian McIntosh
Registration No. 11418252