Built on a diagonal axis The Old Kirk & Muirhouse Parish Church stands as a testament to architectural ingenuity. Its story is one of mergers relocations and serving a growing community.
This Modernist church began its life as Muirhouse St Andrews Parish Church. Work commenced in 1963 to serve the expanding Edinburgh housing estate of Muirhouse. The formal dedication service took place on March 6 1965. The Rt Rev Dr Duncan Fraser then Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland led the service.
Harry Taylor a Church of Scotland architect designed the building. The total cost amounted to 41000 pounds. Imagine the value today.
Note the distinctive canted corner elevation reminiscent of a mitre hat. Look above the door. Concrete sculptures depict the Four Evangelists and the Holy Spirit. A projecting cast iron bell hangs above. These details earned The Old Kirk & Muirhouse Parish Church a statement of special interest from Historic Environment Scotland.
Inside blue stained glass casts interesting light patterns. The light dances on the painted timber pews and simple timber balustrades. The design scheme inside matches the Modernist exterior. In 2013 artist Natalie Taylor constructed a natural labyrinth in the grounds outside. Visitors can still enjoy it today even when the church is closed.
The Old Kirk & Muirhouse Parish Church has undergone significant changes over the years. In June 2014 Muirhouse St Andrews merged with the nearby Old Kirk of Edinburgh. The Old Kirk had a long-established and historic congregation. They had transferred from central Edinburgh in the early 1960s. The Old Kirk building was closed and sold in 2015. The new enlarged congregation was renamed The Old Kirk and Muirhouse.
But the story doesn’t end there. In 2023 The Old Kirk and Muirhouse merged once again this time with historic Cramond Kirk. The new parish was renamed Edinburgh Northwest Church. The Muirhouse building is now called Pennywell Kirk.
Before the merger The Old Kirk Parish Church was originally located in Holyrood Road Edinburgh. This relocation was part of the Church of Scotland policy of Church Extension. It aimed at establishing churches in areas where the population was increasing. The congregation was translated to Pennywell Road.
The building has been described as determined to be new and ingenious. Its white rendered walls and deep eaves create a welcoming atmosphere. The porch splays invitingly out from the North aisle. Its center mullion forms a cross with the transom.
Today The Old Kirk & Muirhouse Parish Church also known as Pennywell Kirk continues to serve the community. It stands as a symbol of faith adaptation and architectural innovation. Its walls have witnessed mergers relocations and the changing needs of its congregation. The story of this church is a microcosm of Edinburgh’s own evolution a blend of history modernity and community spirit.