Downs Baptist Church
Hackney, Greater London
A stunning example of early Modernism (dating from around 1909-1911), St Barnabas Dalston is a hidden gem in north London.
It's a unique building, with high ceilings based on Byzantine architecture and a breath taking rood screen.
The church is hidden behind the Mission Hall, built by the Merchant Tailors for their work in the area. This means the church appears out of nowhere, concealed behind buildings on all sides. Being hidden, it makes the scale of the space even more unexpected.
The 20th century architecture critic Ian Nairn wrote about St Barnabas that it is ‘the best church of its date in London’. Yet it has sadly fallen into disrepair over a period not being used, and now has no heating, very old electrics and many broken windows. Our congregation started using the building in 2010 an we want this incredible space with extraordinary acoustics to be used for our church and our community all year round; we are fundraising to bring light, warmth, improved flooring and better electrics to this stunning example of 20th century architecture.
