A Kendal architecture practice has been shortlisted for a national award after helping to repair and conserve a historic church in Rochdale.
Crosby Granger Architects is a finalist for the King of Prussia Gold Medal at the Church Architecture Awards 2026. The practice is being recognised for its work at St John the Baptist Church, a Grade II*-listed building known for its domed form and reinforced concrete construction.
Complex repairs to church dome and mosaic
The Kendal team carried out detailed surveys of the church’s dome and clerestory as part of work to address a long history of water ingress and concrete decay.
The project also involved a specialist report on damage to a nationally important sanctuary mosaic by artist Eric Newton. The mosaic, completed in 1933, had become detached and cracked.
Crosby Granger Architects has been project architect and contract administrator for the scheme since 2020, after a successful National Lottery Heritage Fund grant.
Director praises parish team
Crosby Granger Architects director Chloe Granger said the repair and conservation work had presented unusual technical challenges because of the building’s ambitious design and reinforced concrete construction.
“The repair and conservation project was exceptional for many reasons. “It is a very unusual building because of its ambitious design and reinforced concrete construction, and this gave rise to some tricky technical challenges which required a real team effort to resolve. “The Sanctuary mosaic is an extraordinary artwork, and it was a real privilege to learn from the specialist restorers carrying out the conservation repairs. “More than anything it was inspiring to work with the parish team, whose personal commitment and dedication to the project was unfailing throughout. “This nomination is a recognition of their achievements as much as those of the design team.”
The awards are organised by the National Churches Trust in partnership with the Ecclesiastical Architects and Surveyors Association.
The winning architect will receive a medal, while the church will be awarded a £500 prize. Winners are due to be announced at a presentation in London on Wednesday 4 November.