“Our Lady and St Peter RC Church, a timeless sentinel on Wimbledon Common.”
The church stands majestically on Victoria Drive, a testament to the vibrant Catholic community of Wimbledon. As you gaze upon its exterior, notice the hexagonal structure, a bold departure from traditional church architecture. This unique design, conceived by the architectural firm Tomei, Mackley & Pound, was inspired by the post-Vatican II era, a time of liturgical reform that sought more engaging worship spaces. The lower part of the church is clad in load-bearing bricks, meticulously laid in Flemish bond. A stark contrast to the lower portion, the upper part of the building is made of reinforced concrete, culminating in a steel-framed roof.
Built in 1970-1, Our Lady and St Peter RC Church was consecrated in 1986. Although not listed as a Grade I or Grade II heritage building, its architectural ingenuity and community value have earned it a special place in the hearts of Wimbledon residents. Inside, a wealth of stained glass, created by the renowned Whitefriars Studios, bathes the church in a kaleidoscope of colors. The nave is dominated by a glazed lantern, a feat of engineering that floods the interior with natural sunlight.
This architectural marvel embodies the spirit of a community that has embraced the changing tides of faith and tradition.