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St Barnabas' Church, Bexhill
North aisle re-development
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DBR Southern undertook a sensitive programme of redevelopment works at St Barnabas Church in Bexhill-on-Sea, the first church established in the town’s expanding seaside resort during the late nineteenth century. Designed by the Victorian architect Sir Arthur William Blomfield and completed in 1891, the Grade II listed flint church has long served as an important place of worship and community gathering.
Client
St. Barnabas’ Church Bexhill
Dates
18 Jul 2024
—
30 Jan 2025
Location
Bexhill
Grade listing
Grade II
Fabric
Timber
Architects
Thomas Forde & Partners
Reimagining the North Aisle
The works focused on the north aisle, where the church sought to introduce new facilities while carefully preserving the character of the historic interior. Existing timber block flooring was removed to allow for the installation of new below-ground drainage, supporting upgraded amenities within the building. Two west-end windows were sensitively altered, with new leaded lights installed in keeping with the church’s original architectural style.
Blending Modern Facilities with Historic Fabric
New internal spaces were formed through the construction of timber stud partitions, creating areas for modern WCs and a kitchen. Electrical power, lighting, heating, and water services were integrated into the existing structure, while glazed screens were installed within the arches to provide separation without losing the openness of the church interior. Radiators were introduced throughout the north aisle to improve comfort and usability for the congregation.
Conserving and Protecting Historic Features
Conservation remained central to the project throughout. The historic church font was carefully dismantled and relocated by a specialist mason, with new footings and drainage connections installed within the nave. Ceiling structures above the new facilities were rebuilt with insulation and service voids, while a new first-floor storage area with safety balustrades and access hatches was also created. Kitchen and WC facilities were completed with modern fittings, bespoke servery hatches, and fire-rated roller shutters, ensuring the church could better support contemporary community use.
Delivering Sensitive Change
The project was carried out in close coordination with the church and its stakeholders to minimise disruption to services and events. Environmental and heritage considerations shaped every stage of the works, with interventions designed to remain reversible and respectful to the original fabric. Wildlife protection measures were also maintained throughout the programme. The completed works successfully balanced conservation with modernisation, allowing St Barnabas Church to continue serving its congregation while preserving the legacy of Sir Arthur Blomfield’s original design.
