Church Extension

The existing Church was constructed back in 1987, and has served the community well since that date.

The congregation has grown in size, necessitating an extension to the 226sq.metre building area. That Church extension requires some architectural sensitivity with respect to the building's massing, the building's iconography, and the links between the existing and new spaces.

The arrival at 13 Maru Road is from the north, and there is a need to display the Christian cross in some large delivery on arrival.

We have created a large arrival fale roof structure.

This is a large oval shelter, set on large timber posts, holding up a large domed roof mass. There are no walls, with the base of the architecture as a skeleton frame.

The spaces outside and under the fale, are part of Samoan culture form, ceremony and ritual.

The architecture of Samoa is characterised by "openness", with the design of buildings and spaces, mirroring the culture and life of the Samoan people.

This open structure, receives the congregation under its extensive shelter, and allows family gatherings to pass into the interior of the Church.

The malae, the open grass area to the north, is provided to create an important cultural space beside the fale, allowing interaction between visitors, hosts and formal outdoor gatherings.

The internal Atrium Entry receives the congregation and guests, with the family gathering in this open space, before passing into the new 250square metre Church Hall.

The Pastor and Altar then receive the congregation.

The existing Church Hall now becomes a Community Centre.

A new commercial Kitchen has been created to support the Community hall and the new Church hall.

Externally, high level coloured glass to the south and north facades, bring a display of bright natural light to the interior of both Community and Church Halls.