The fellowship of the Waterfront Community Apostolic Church, Swansea, was originally founded in 1920 but constructed its current building in 2006. The designs by Tim Gent of Atkins were created in response to specific questions posed by the congregation about the modern role of a chapel building within the community; how it communicates with its community and how it can play an active part in that community’s social and physical life and regeneration. 

The interior is practical and utilitarian, described as deliberately designed without compartmentalisation, ensuring large spaces ‘without walls’ are ‘neutral’ and flexible in their use.  

The exterior boasts a striking modern style that represents the fiery ‘arms’ of a Catherine Wheel to create visual impact and a sense of place, combining architectural elevations with slit windows which, together with the glazed entrance elevation allows visibility to within, and from without, the building. This both grounds the congregation in their physical surroundings and invites entry into the chapel. 

RCAHMW December 2024