From sacred to shared: Bath’s Trinity Church reopens as a creative coworking hub

Bath’s Trinity Church has embarked on a remarkable new journey, transitioning into a creative coworking space after years of abandonment following its closure in 2011 when it used to be the heart of the Afro-Caribbean community in the city. The restoration and repurposing of the Victorian Gothic landmark into a coworking space for creatives was led by Gather Round, an initiative founded by Ben Steers and Jason Smith, the minds behind Fiasco Design creative agency. Gather Round, established in 2019, aims to provide inspiring and flexible studio spaces by creatives for creatives, currently supporting over 300 members in Bristol.

The renovation of Trinity Church involved collaboration with local design and construction experts, with attention to maintaining the building’s original features while incorporating modern functionality. The interior design by Westworks seamlessly blends contemporary elements with the church’s historic charm, showcasing the timber beams, stained-glass windows, and stonework. Additional customized touches by Foxon and Foxon and AJ Lowthers enhance the space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The coworking space within Trinity Church offers various work areas, including a mezzanine workspace with gothic arches and private studios, meeting rooms, and breakout zones catering to different work styles. The ground floor features an auditorium for events and a social space that transforms into an evening venue. The space pays tribute to the church’s past as a cultural hub for Bath’s Afro-Caribbean community in the 1970s and ’80s, reflecting Gather Round’s commitment to restoring historic spaces for modern creative use.

As the demand for coworking spaces outside major cities grows, Trinity Church’s transformation serves as a beacon for Bath’s creative sector, offering a unique and community-oriented workspace. The project underscores the potential of repurposing heritage buildings with care and creativity, blending the past with the present to create a space where creativity and community can thrive. The restoration has been met with enthusiasm from the local community, highlighting the significance of preserving historic buildings while adapting them for contemporary needs.