St Mary at Finchley
Finchley , Greater London
The church was established sometime in the 12th century and by 1356 it was dedicated to St Mary.
St Augustine's has a modern design.
It's architecture and interior perfectly models the pastoral ethos of Vatican II. Its poverty of materials, the simplicity and clarity of the liturgical space retains a sense of the sacred, while focusing on the essentials of faith. An excellent example how the sense of the sacred can be conveyed in a modern way.
The church has a semi circular arrangement with the altar at its inviting centre. The mid 1970s design is the work of Biscoe and Santon Architects, a purpose built design of church combined with hall, vicarage, and the surrounding mini park. The complex was built as a missionary chapel of Saint Alphage's Church, Burnt Oak and still serves as such.
The building material, simple brick, imitates the buildings of the estate. By now these 'mid70s' buildings have acquired the sense of 'antiquated quality'. For the contemporary eyes, in contrast with the brand new estates, they feel like a 'mystery house'. Literally, it is one!
The visitor can marvel the functionality and personal atmosphere of a church of which rooms and functions can be accessible via one entrance, opening up from a foyer which welcomes the visitor. The sacred part of the building houses the main church and a small friendly chapel.
