Chapel of St Albert the Great
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Chapel of St Albert the Great

Simpson & Brown Architects

Chapel of St Albert the Great
By Simpson & Brown Architects -
The Chapel of Saint Albert the Great, which has been serving students and staff, and the wider community since 1931, is situated on George Square at the University of Edinburgh. The chapel, designed by Simpson & Brown Architects was completed in late 2012 and aims to provide a modern space for worship but also to increase capacity and improve accessibility. A new access was created from Middle Meadow Walk so the chapel is now a feature for the many people that walk along this popular route.
The choice of materials was an important factor in the design of the building. Joinery manufacturer Sandy Bruce from SK Bruce Joinery helped source ‘a beautiful looking timber that is stable and has an excellent colour and grain,’ says Stuart Allan from Simpson & Brown Architects. American white oak was chosen for the ceiling cladding over the altar and sanctuary spaces. The ceiling is support by four tree-like Corten Steel columns. The timber has a natural fire resistance which was significantly important as the whole interior of the church is white oak. It also meets acoustics requirements as the oak linings prevents any issues with reverberation.

Location: Edinburgh, UK
Client:
The Dominican Council as Trustees of the English Province of the Order of Preachers
Completion:
2012
Architects:
Simpson & Brown Architects
Collaborators:
George Berry & Partners

Consultants
Structural:
Elliott & Company
Services:
Irons Foulner

Photography:
© Chris Humphreys
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