KODAs architects conservation architect Fred Hamer has carried out the Quinquennial Inspection in Malvern at St. Gabriel’s Church. The church of St. Gabriel was part of a wider master plan of Malvern which planning for the rapid expansion of the settlement in the late 19th Century.

Built at the height of the industrial revolution, urban centres were experiencing massive growth to serve factories and business. As part of this rapid period of growth, churches and other civic buildings were planned and built as Victorian terraced housing encompassed them. However in the case of St. Gabriel’s the church was designed and built ready to serve the new community which didn’t come. The mass expansion of this part of Worcestershire was never realised and as such, this large church building serves a small community.

KODA Architects conservation architects Fred Hamer is the quinquennial inspecting Architect in Malvern for St. Gabriel’ Church in Worcester Diocese.

The church is an excellent example of 19th century ecclesiastical high Victorian architecture. The tall spire and imposing nature of the building is typical of High Victorian values, a contrast to older ecclesiastical buildings. 

KODAs conservation architect, Fred Hamer said "Its a pleasure to have the roll of inspecting Architect for such a wide range of building. The challenges we face with St. Gabriel’s is perhaps more heightened as it is a building which didn’t reach its full potential in serving the expectant population. We must think of creative ways to conserve this building as landmark to Victorian ambitions "

As with many other churches across the country, congregations are facing increasing repair costs against ever dwindling congregation numbers. KODA architects are specialists in working with PCCs in carefully adapting church buildings, diversifying their revenue income and managing change to these important buildaings. Take a look at out Church reordering page for more information on our process.