Salvation Army Hendon Corps / Hendon

FBM Architects were appointed following a design competition to create an exciting new church and community centre for the Hendon Corps of the Salvation Army, which opened in 2017. A key design challenge was in developing a space that offers a spiritual experience whilst providing space for community use.

The main hall, which can house 325 people has been designed as a high-performance acoustic environment to accommodate the Hendon Corp’s acclaimed brass band. The roof takes on a saw-tooth profile with incorporated clerestory glazing to exploit north light opportunities, which is essential in enhancing the spatial and spiritual qualities within. A smaller community space will be used for Sunday services, performances, band practice and provided much needed local facilities for different age and user groups.

Whilst the scale of the brick-clad building knits well with the domestic townscape, the active frontage and entrance announce the presence of the Corps in the community; using a subtly different brick to the surrounding context as well as contemporary detailing ensures the facade maintains a character of its own.

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