‘We had a very positive experience of working with Christian O’Reilly. Everyone has been thrilled with the quality of the workmanship and the furniture has been recognised as part of our success with architectural awards for the overall project’

The three pieces were for the worship area of St Aubyn’s, which is on a new mezzanine floor above the original church, which is now in public use as a library run by Plymouth City Council. The furniture needed to relate to the rest of the building and strike the right note for both church and community use.

Christian O’Reilly understood our brief very well; we had a concept, but the design needed refining to create elegant, but strong furniture which would last and stay looking good for a long time. Everything they did was true to the original design concept which reflects the contemporary re-use of a historic Georgian church with beautiful geometry. We had an excellent collaboration throughout the project. Our meetings, both face to face and via Skype, were very positive. We had a clear understanding of all detailed alterations made to the design and our client was kept fully informed, knew what to expect and felt that they had a proper input into the project. I know that Christian’s care in explaining things was very much appreciated by the parish. The deadline was tight and the fee was fixed. Christian O’Reilly kept to their side of things completely and the pieces were delivered to site on time and with no fuss. The furniture has been consistently admired by everyone who has seen it.’

Amanda Le Page, Director, Le Page Architects Ltd

Project details

Client : Le Page Architects

Brief : To make the Altar, Bishops Chair and Lectern for the refurbished church.

Key project points :

+ collaboration with Le Page Architects Ltd and the parish of St Aubyn’s to develop their concept for bespoke church furniture comprising the altar, bishop’s chair and lectern

+ tight timescale to deliver in time for Christmas services

+ sustainably managed European oak, glass and steel construction