The St Thomas More Columbarium, nestled in the serene surroundings of Bateman, Western Australia, is more than just a resting place for ashes; it's a testament to the power of thoughtful architecture. This project, led by Simon Pendal Architect, showcases how a simple brief can result in a profound and moving space. The challenge was to create a columbarium that not only serves its functional purpose but also enhances the landscape and respects the existing church design. The result is a masterpiece that seamlessly blends form and function, inviting both reflection and connection with nature.
What makes this project particularly fascinating is how it navigates the delicate balance between modesty and impact. Pendal's design, presented to parishioners in 2021, is a study in simplicity and legibility. Three stone "towers" form a porous enclosure, reminiscent of ancient ruins, that invites both human occupancy and the presence of nature. This design is not just visually appealing; it's a thoughtful response to the site's history and the needs of the community.
One thing that immediately stands out is the careful consideration given to the relationship between the towers and the church. The towers, with their one-metre fall in the natural ground plane, are not random; they adhere to the orthogonal grid of the church buildings. This attention to detail is a hallmark of good civic architecture, where the care shown to stakeholders, in this case, the parish, its community, and the families and memories of the interred, is paramount.
The towers, made predominantly of local limestone block, have a beautifully crude and singular architectural language. Their soft golden color complements the brickwork of the church, and their austerity and cubic figures evoke the Church of Santa Maria in Portugal by Alvaro Siza and the ossuary at the San Cataldo Cemetery outside Modena, Italy, by Aldo Rossi. This nod to history and tradition adds depth and meaning to the space.
What many people don't realize is the subtle symbolism woven into the design. The geometry within the towers, with a square plan hollowed out by an octagonal-shaped volume, refers to the significance of the eighth day in Christianity, symbolizing new creation and eternal life. The 45-degree angle, also found in the adjacent church, further enriches this symbolism, connecting the columbarium to the broader religious and cultural context.
A detail that I find especially interesting is the use of a single piece of furniture, a stool made from the trunk of a spotted gum, in the center of each columbarium. Its pentagonal shape, a reference to the five wounds of Christ, symbolizes sacrifice and love. This simple yet powerful element invites visitors to linger and reflect, creating a deeply personal and meaningful experience.
Exiting the towers and stepping back into the enclosed garden provides a stark contrast between dark and light, raw and refined, death and life. The canopies of peppermint and almond trees moderate the Western Australian sunlight, casting their fine branch forms onto the monumental walls of the towers. This interplay of light and shadow, nature and architecture, is a testament to the power of thoughtful design.
In my opinion, the St Thomas More Columbarium is a shining example of how architecture can enhance our lives and connect us to our past, present, and future. It is a space that invites reflection, contemplation, and a deeper understanding of the human experience. As we navigate the complexities of urban development, projects like this remind us of the importance of care, respect, and a deep understanding of the place and people we serve.
