Group 10
REIMAGINGING WATERBARN CHAPEL

Our journey of reimagination begins at Waterbarn Chapel, a derelict ruin in Stacksteads, Bacup. Built in 1847, the chapel was partially burnt down in 2022, leaving the building structurally unsafe and open to the elements. Now a hive for criminal activity, the Chapel's condition brings discontent to the local residents. The team of Architecture and Adaptive Re-use students at Manchester School of Architecture aim to reimagine the Chapel as an affordable, emergency housing scheme. Through engaging with our collaborators, Valley Heritage, and local community groups, our aims to adapt and reuse the local Grade II listed landmark, retain its historic integrity and change its use (to provide affordable housing for those in need), will, in turn, reduce crime, improve the local environment for existing residents and improve land values.

Adam H / Eleanor Somerset W / Ella M / Kim A / Tiree N / Zihao H

Tiree N
Hello! I'm Tiree. With a background in traditional architecture, I now study the MArch Masters of Architecture course at Manchester School of Architecture. The heritage project in Bacup thrills me; Waterbarn Chapel is a monumental feature of a small-town community surrounded by scenic hills, pastures and forests, standing out in sandstone in amongst the grey. It has lots of potential to be a real pillar of social housing in an area that struggles with homelessness. This project is one where I can further develop my skills in adaptive reuse, concept design and leadership, whereby the story of the building is respected as we bring it into the future.
Posted 7 Mar 2025 18:07
Adam H
Hi! I'm Adam and I'm on the Master of Architecture course. I also work as a Part 1 in Manchester, with experience in conversions and new builds within the residential sector. My architectural interests are adaptive reuse and temporary architecture. I'm looking forward to reimagining the Waterbarn Chapel and hope to meet some of you soon!
Posted 8 Mar 2025 11:33
Eleanor Somerset W
Hi! My name is Ellie, and I’m from the United States.

Before joining the MA Architecture and Adaptive Reuse program, I studied interior architecture at Rhode Island School of Design. I also worked at a residential design company, assisting in the restoration and renovation of historic homes in Boston.

I have always been interested in how adaptive reuse can reimagine historic spaces to serve new needs. Redesigning the Waterbarn Chapel offers a unique opportunity to honour the town of Bacup’s history and culture, while creating a space to represent new communities.

I’m excited to collaborate with my fellow MSA students, Valley Heritage, and the Rossendale community to explore creative possibilities for the Waterbarn Chapel!
Posted 8 Mar 2025 11:41
Kim A
Hello! I'm Kim and I'm currently study on the Master of Architecture Course.

Before studying at Manchester School of Architecture, I worked in a rural based practice in the Ribble Valley for two years. The projects I worked on in this time mainly focused on new build dwellings, extensions and conversions of buildings such as barns, pubs & community spaces.

From this experience I have also gained valuable knowledge working within conservation areas, AONBs and with Listed Buildings.

As someone from Lancashire, getting to work on a project in my home county is particularly exciting. I am looking forward to working with Valley Heritage and my peers at MSA to help restore Waterbarn Chapel and graveyard into an asset for the local community.

The 178 year old chapel has fallen into a poor state of repair in recent years with the roof collapsing in 2011 and was damaged by two fires in 2022 & 2023. As unfortunate as these events were, they allow for a boarder range of possibilities for the building going forward.

Posted 9 Mar 2025 19:09
Zihao H
Hello, I am Zihao Huang, an architecture student graduated from Guangzhou University and a current student of Architecture and Adaptive Reuse.

What I am most interested in is the reusing of the materials and structure of existing buildings, which can make it will be adaptable to the needs of society in the coming decades, and other Points of Interest is the adaptive reuse of the community services. In leisure time, other Points of Interest are painting and watching videos.

Having the opportunity to work on Waterbsrn Bastist Church is exciting and expectant. I am looking forward to the subsequent teamwork and output. Finally, I hope that we can make great gains and progress.
Posted 9 Mar 2025 20:21
Ella M
Hello,

I’m Ella an Interior Architecture graduate from Liverpool John Moores University and a current student of Architecture and Adaptive Reuse.

My main interest within architectural design is the reuse of existing buildings, allowing them to have a new lease of life but also celebrating the historical footprint of what is already built. I love buildings which are full of character and hope that I will be able to work with listed buildings such as churches, industrial structures and many more in my proffesional practice.

Having the opportunity to work on Waterbarn Baptist Church is very exciting and relevant to my interests. I’m looking forward to proposing a plan to restore and repurpose the church with my MSA
Live group and hope we give the Valley Heritage team lots of positive ideas.
Posted 10 Mar 2025 08:23