The south elevation of the South Transept projects out, toward the market town of Ringwood, set on the outskirts of the New Forest. Conservation repairs to make the masonry and glazing safe presented an opportunity for the Inspecting Architect to design a new window that would celebrate the church’s locality and enliven the interior with a beautiful display of coloured light.
Our large Victorian Parish Church had suffered water ingress and decaying stonework to the huge South Transept window for many years. We were delighted to continue to work with St Ann’s Gate and Emma Mullen, our Inspecting Architect, on the repair and refurbishment. Emma suggested that, instead of replacing the plain leaded glass with the same, we might consider a simple design in coloured glass which would still allow lots of natural light into the church. We were delighted with the designs she provided.
Getting permission took several years and had several difficulties. Emma remained patient and professional at all times and we persisted because we knew our chosen design was the right one. We are absolutely delighted with the result which enhances our church with something of our time but which sits so well with our existing significant stained glass. We now call it, most appropriately, The Celebration Window. St Ann’s Gate bring a very special combination of artistic flair, architectural understanding and knowledge, and courteous project management.
Fabric repairs were identified within the quinquennial inspection, to address failing masonry, water ingress and poor secondary glazing on the south elevation of the South Transept. The project included masonry repairs including re-pointing, replacement of dressed stone and removal of the Victorian tie bar that was responsible for bursting open the Bath limestone as it rusted. The leaded glass and modern secondary glazing were replaced with a new leaded glass window, which took the opportunity to introduce coloured glass, with a design that could be seen inside and out. The green and yellow tones of the design relate to the New Forest and the locality of the building. Enlarged borders of rectangular glass and motifs were used to introduce form and design into an otherwise diamond leaded window, which kept costs within budget whilst making a significant improvement to the interior space.
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