Centennial Chapel - St Andrew's College

A Christchurch chapel harmonises modern services and design with heritage character to create an award winning, multipurpose facility.

Powell Fenwick carried out the Mechanical, Electrical, Fire, Civil and Hydraulics engineering services for the St Andrew’s College chapel to replace its earthquake-damaged predecessor. The chapel’s ceiling design is reflective of the ‘v huts’ of Canterbury’s first church building, while a 40-metre-long memorial wall salvaged from the original building retains its heritage feel.

Services were integrated within the unique ceiling design and have custom grills and diffusers to fit with the interior surface finishes. Ensuring these blended in was key to retaining the modern, streamlined feel.

Quiet underfloor heating was incorporated alongside an air source heat pump for efficiency. High performance glazing works to minimise solar gain and heat loss, while a two-pipe system was installed to reduce capital spend.

Heritage lighting was salvaged from the old building and lamps were reinstated with the latest LED lighting technology. Light fittings were specifically chosen to conform to the building’s design.

Audio-visual elements such as the projector screens, sound and lighting controls were seamlessly integrated into the space. These are tailored for the chapel’s many uses including assemblies, conferences, and worship – and importantly are user friendly.

Powell Fenwick have since carried out additional works around the school, ensuring a cohesive look in line with the chapel. The new bridge’s lighting design retains similar elements and reduces clutter by being located on the handrail – emphasising its modernity.