The St Thomas More Columbarium, designed by Simon Pendal Architect, is a captivating addition to the Bateman Parish Catholic Church grounds in Western Australia. This new civic space, nestled among native trees, offers a serene environment for reflection and a unique approach to interment.
What makes this project particularly intriguing is its ability to strike a delicate balance. The architect's challenge was to create a space that complemented the existing church without overshadowing it, and to provide a peaceful setting for both individual and collective experiences. In my opinion, Pendal's design achieves this beautifully.
The columbarium consists of three stone towers, forming an enclosure that invites nature and human presence alike. This arrangement, reminiscent of ancient ruins or walled gardens, creates a sense of enclosure while allowing for connection with the surroundings. The towers, with their austere yet elegant architectural language, echo the monastic planning of the parish's foundation buildings, designed by Iris Rossen in 1986.
One of the most fascinating aspects is the careful consideration of scale and geometry. The relationship between the towers forms a pinwheel, providing private entries and a sense of intimacy. The placement of the towers aligns with the orthogonal grid of the church, showcasing a subtle yet powerful connection. The interior of each tower is a study in geometry and symbolism. The octagonal volume, open to the sky, represents the significance of the eighth day in Christianity, symbolizing new creation and eternal life. The single stool, crafted from spotted gum, invites visitors to sit and reflect, its pentagonal shape referencing the five wounds of Christ.
The internal walls, with their matrix of funerary-urn niches, create a non-hierarchical interment space. The play of light and shadow, the contrast between the raw and refined, and the dance of tree branches on the monumental walls, all contribute to a powerful sensory experience.
This project is a testament to the power of architecture to create meaningful spaces. It demonstrates that a careful evaluation of the existing urban field can lead to thoughtful and respectful design interventions. As an architect, I find it inspiring to see how Pendal has approached this project with a deep sense of care and consideration for the parish, its community, and the memories of those interred.
In a profession that often grapples with the destructive potential of its activities, projects like the St Thomas More Columbarium remind us of the life-enhancing possibilities of architecture when practiced with empathy and respect.
