MISSION TO RENOVATE

Pre-fabricated churches, or ‘tin tabernacles’, developed in the mid-19th century, were quickly assembled places of worship, designed to serve a temporary purpose before more permanent structures could be built. The Tin Tabernacle in Bailbrook Lane has been empty for years, but now it has been purchased by Theo Raithby and his partner who plan to restore it and make it their permanent home. We ask Theo about his Bath connections and his plans for the Tin Tabernacle

Q. Tell us a bit about yourself

I was born and raised in Bath. I grew up on Gloucester Road and moved near the Batheaston Toll Bridge in my early teens. I graduated in Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management, but I am currently working in a site management role for a company that specialises in office fit-out and refurbishment.

Q You have just bought the Tin Tabernacle in Bailbrook Lane, an abandoned church with a Grade-II listing. Why have you decided to do this and what plans do you have for it?

I’ve always been interested in property and architecture and like many locals was sorry to see it fall into disrepair. When given the opportunity to restore this unique building it was perfect for us. It’s close to family and friends, commutable for work, with beautiful views, easy access into Bath, the countryside on our doorstep and I do love a good project!

Q. Will you bring different things to the conversion?

We will keep the current structure and the look pretty much the same because of the building’s listed status, and in our view its charm comes from all the original features. It was approved for change of use to private residence in 1991 and has been lived in for many years, so we simply plan to restore it back into a warm, habitable, and loving home.

Q. Why is the Tin Tabernacle so important to conserve?

Nationally it stands as one of the last few remaining examples of this early form of flat-pack construction. Locally it’s a landmark in the heart of Bailbrook Lane. It’s an unforgettable milestone that we pass on family walks and a building many people have fond memories of. I think it’s important the Tin Church is conserved for both its national and local interest for generations to come.

Q. What will be the first priorities with the restoration?

Currently we’re organising the contents of the church, and ensuring that as much of what’s not being kept is recycled, rehomed, or given to charity shops. We’re also busy working on the architectural drawings and documentation needed to apply for planning permission and listed building consent, which is required before we can start the restoration.

Q. Will the internal structure stay the same, and how will you deal with the tower?

Yes, it will remain a timber structure, because this, along with the softwood matchboard lining that clad the walls and roof, form part of the building’s listing. Old photos and architectural drawings provide an excellent starting point for restoring the tower, along with advice from architects and other professionals.

Q. Are there defined rooms inside the church at the moment?

There is a mezzanine level used for storage, a bathroom in the back corner, a few internal walls that separate the main body of the building and two small sections to the sides due to its cruciform design. Much of the space is open plan, so excluding the bathroom this allows for several options when it comes to the internal layout. I have ideas but we’ll wait for suggestions from the architect and planners.

Q. How might you repair those magnificent windows?

When working with historic and listed buildings the hierarchy generally follows maintain, repair, restore and as a last resort replace. The Tin Church will require a full structural survey as well as consultation from listed building/heritage experts to identify their condition along with any causes of decay to determine the most appropriate course of action for each window. Originally the frames were painted white and the large east window had some stained glass which we have some old photos of and a description for reference. Most of the window repairs will be done by a local specialist.

Q. Do you have an idea about the style approach to the interior? And will you keep some of the original features?

The interior will have a dark, rustic, and cosy feel with the solid floorboards and timber clad walls/ceilings. I’m fond of Victorian interiors and that of old English manor houses with deep red Persian rugs, brown leather furniture, dark timber wardrobes, leather-topped desks, paintings in ornate gold frames, brass lamps, and bookcases full of old books. But we’ll have to wait and see how this develops as the project progresses. The pulpit and pews must remain in the Tin Church and I feel will act as a nice reminder of the building’s history.

Theo and Fay outside The Tin Church