St George's Crypt

This multi award-winning facility for the homeless comprises an extension and extensive refurbishment of St George’s Crypt, an annex to the Grade II listed St George’s Church in the centre of Leeds.

Heritage conservation projects such as church and chapel refurbishments demand a sensitive approach but this scheme was also an exploration of how architecture can influence the way an organisation is run and the impact it has on users.

The church extension has been an enormous success, with the charity telling us that the openness of the design and quality of finish has been instrumental in improving self-esteem and trust. Graffiti and vandalism has significantly reduced and, for the first time, clients were given some privacy, particularly crucial for female clients. St George’s Crypt has also been able to extend its services to the homeless of Leeds, by offering health checks, training and support.