Case study: St James the Great, East St. Kilda, VIC

St. James the Great, a historic church in East St. Kilda, Melbourne, has undergone a significant transformation to create a modern, inclusive sanctuary while respecting its architectural heritage. The latest project, led by Atelier Wagner, addresses the spatial and aesthetic challenges of integrating a parish center within a narrow strip of land between the church and neighboring residential blocks. The design focuses on creating a sense of openness and welcoming to the community, which had previously been obstructed by a large eucalyptus tree and outdated vertical blinds.

The solution involved removing the eucalyptus to stabilise the foundations and installing an innovative sun shading system. The project team selected Shade Factor’s Warema E100AF cable-guided external venetian blinds, which provide sun protection while enhancing the visual connection between the church’s interior and the street. The blinds, with a sleek Anthrazit-Metallic finish, complement the church’s modern design, which incorporates a lightbox tower and a galvanised steel cross to serve as a landmark visible from a distance.

This renovation not only improves the building’s functionality and aesthetic appeal but also ensures that the church remains a welcoming and integral part of the vibrant multicultural community of East St. Kilda. The project successfully integrates contemporary design elements while preserving the church’s religious significance and connection to its surroundings.