17Nineteen - Holy Trinity Church

Sunderland, North East

AABC Conservation Awards Citation

The architectural conservation of Holy Trinity, a Grade I listed church, embarked upon by the 17Nineteen project, demonstrates meticulous design and preservation techniques. 

Initially identified as a structure at risk by Historic England due to neglect, decay, and vulnerability, the intervention of the Churches Conservation Trust (CCT) in 1988 marked the beginning of a journey to revive this historical gem. The conservation endeavour was not merely about restoring physical aspects but also about understanding the narrative woven by the edifice over time. Moisture ingress, lack of ventilation, and previous interventions had taken a toll on the building, necessitating a comprehensive approach to address issues ranging from water damage to inadequate structural support. The design team meticulously assessed the challenges and formulated a strategy rooted in best conservation practices. 

The conservation process started with the preparation of an assessment of significance to detail technical design specifications. Specialised reports delved into various aspects including paint analysis, timber decay, and structural integrity, providing a holistic understanding of the building’s condition. Throughout the project, stakeholder engagement played a pivotal role, with extensive consultations conducted with the community, conservation bodies, and the Trust’s internal committees. This collaborative approach ensured that interventions were not only technically sound but also aligned with the aspirations of the local populace and the ethos of preservation. Specialist conservators have restored memorials, plasterwork, and stained glass, breathing new life into the intricate details of the church’s interior. One of the most significant interventions involved the excavation of the original nave floor, restoring it with a suspended stone floor equipped with modern amenities like underfloor heating and insulation. Bespoke joinery, crafted using traditional techniques, harmonises with the existing architecture while subtly incorporating elements of interpretation, such as hidden drawers revealing layers of historic paint. This blend of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary comforts exemplifies the adaptive reuse of heritage spaces for modern needs. 

The completion of the project heralds a new chapter in the life of Holy Trinity, where the beauty of simplicity and openness is preserved alongside carefully curated contemporary elements.

Judges’ Comments: “17Nineteen - Holy Trinity Church embodies the ethos of preserving the past for future generations while adapting to the evolving needs of the present.”