Project Overview

Constructed initially in 1871 the Chapel was and is the cultural and spiritual centre for the Sisters of the Good Shepherd at the Abbotsford Convent.

Robert Simeoni Architects was engaged to restore the building and explore the possibility of creating new uses and spaces for redundant areas. In addition to traditional worship facilities, flexible spaces are provided for use by lay people and the general public. An interpretive centre, a variety of meeting spaces and amenities, including an intimate space in the crypt have been incorporated into this restoration project.

Our approach to the project was respectful of the architectural and cultural history of the Chapel and in accordance with the Burra Charter. Restoration of the existing building was undertaken with care to retain as much of the existing fabric as possible.

This restoration of the existing Chapel and the new interventions honour the history of the Good Shepherd Sisters and provide a multifunctional facility for their continued work and presence within the community.

Project Commissioner

Good Shepherd Australia New Zealand

Project Creator

Robert Simeoni Pty Ltd Architects

Team

Robert Simeoni
Mark Humphrey
Jenny Malacchini
Ursula Chandler
Kon Katsieris
Anne-Claire De Ville

Project Brief

Robert Simeoni Architects was engaged to restore the building and explore the possibility of creating new uses and spaces for redundant areas. To this end, we developed a brief in consultation with the Sisters which explored the spiritual and cultural narrative of the community of Sisters as well as a complete review of the existing building fabric, including stonework, roofing, windows, lighting and other elements. We sought at all times to interpret the historical value of these elements in the restoration project. In addition to traditional worship facilities, flexible spaces are provided for use by lay people and the general public. An interpretive centre, a variety of meeting spaces and accessible amenities, including an intimate space in the crypt have been incorporated into this restoration project.

Project Need

New work has been treated intentionally as an intervention, a contemporary architectural layer, sitting lightly within and subordinate to the existing fabric. Importantly, wherever possible these interventions are reversible. Glazed screens allow the existing doors to remain open without compromising weather proofing or security and provide light, ventilation and a sense of openness. Glass and steel partition screens define new spaces while maintaining the integrity of the interior space.

The landscaping, a reinvigorated element, provides equality of access into the building, defines entry hierarchy and reconnects the Chapel to the Convent.

We have undertaken the project as a restoration with the intention of retaining as much of the existing fabric as possible. For example, deteriorated stone carvings whose details were unknown were dressed back and protected or replaced with uncarved stone blocks. Only where we were confident of their accuracy have heritage fabric or elements been reinstated. The confessionals, no longer required, have been converted to an office with traces of the removed partitions retained.

Design Challenge

Given the heritage value of the Chapel, adapting the building for the contemporary life of the Good Shepherd community whilst preserving its architectural and cultural integrity presented significant challenges. Preservation of the original building fabric and the quality of spaces within were important considerations when exploring possibilities for more intimate and flexible spaces. Adapting a nineteenth century building to provide equality of access. Restoration of the existing fabric also presented the usual array of challenges; what to replace, what to retain and where to source appropriate labour and materials.

Sustainability

The works completed have revitalised an existing and significant building, providing impetus for the life of the Good Shepherd community into the future. The existing building fabric was retained, adapted and augmented for contemporary needs. New spaces have been created within the existing building envelope reducing the demand for resources. For example, the existing subfloor storage space is now utilised for accessible amenities and meeting spaces and an interpretive centre constructed in an underutilised corner at the periphery of the main worship space. Existing materials were reclaimed and reused wherever possible.

Interior Design - Public or Institutional

This award recognises building interiors, with consideration given to space creation and planning, furnishings, finishes and aesthetic presentation. Consideration given to space allocation, traffic flow, building services, lighting, fixtures, flooring, colours, furnishings and surface finishes.
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