Poole Methodist Church had a brief to create a welcoming community space, our team worked closely with the client to design the mechanical and electrical solutions that would transform the historic building into a modern, multi-functional hub. Despite the challenges of working with a listed building and limited plant room space, we delivered systems that met the client’s needs for comfort, efficiency, and aesthetics.
CLIENT: Poole Methodist Church – The Spire, Poole
LOCATION: Poole, Dorset
SERVICES: Mechanical & Electrical Design
CLIENT OBJECTIVES
Poole Methodist Church aimed to create a community hub that would serve as a centre for local events and activities. They envisioned a space that could be rented out for various functions, generating income to support the church’s mission. The project involved extending the existing church building and adding a mezzanine floor to maximise usable space. A café on the ground floor would provide a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
OUR SOLUTION
Our team took on full design and on-site duties, conducting monthly inspections to ensure the installation met our high standards. Working within the constraints of a listed building, we developed creative solutions to overcome space limitations and legacy challenges.
We implemented an underfloor heating system to provide efficient, even warmth throughout the large space. Our calculations accounted for the substantial heat loss typical in buildings of this size and age.
During the project, we encountered and resolved a tricky issue with uneven heating distribution between rooms. This required some clever problem-solving and fine-tuning of the system. We used an existing spire to house an extraction fan and existing structures as ventilation for the discarded air.
THE OUTCOME
The church now has a versatile, comfortable space that serves its congregation and the wider community. The carefully integrated mechanical and electrical systems support the building’s new functions while respecting its historic character. Poole Methodist Church now has a facility that not only meets its current needs but is also well-equipped to serve future generations.
