Q In a nutshell, describe your practice A Connolly Wellingham Architects (CWa) is a design-led conservation practice committed to creative re-use, retrofit and cultural continuity. Q What do you do that is different from more mainstream practice? A Although our focus naturally generates enquiries for work to existing buildings, we encourage clients to think differently about their role: what positive change can we make with what we have? What more can we offer the public realm? How is my project a cultural catalyst? How am I part of an existing narrative? Q Tell us about a current project that exemplifies this A We do a lot of work with churches. While this can be about liturgy, it's far more regularly about strengthening communities and a generosity of public spirit. If [18th-century architect Giambattista] Nolli's plan teaches us anything, it's that churches are absolutely part of the public realm. At Holy Trinity in Colden Common, a small kitchen and WC will unlock a world of socialising and support. At Oasis Hub in Bath, we're talking about the church as a 'home for the city', with community kitchens feeding local children below the poverty line and outside of term time, meeting spaces for youth, groups and counselling, spaces to wash and rest.
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